Basel, a Swiss city on the Rhine River primarily speaking German, has been chosen to host the Eurovision Song Contest next year from May 13 to 17, as announced by organizers on Friday. The decision to select Basel over Geneva has stirred excitement and interest across Switzerland. This decision follows Swiss singer Nemo’s victory in the 68th edition of the contest in May, making him the first Swiss to win since Canadian Celine Dion competed for Switzerland in 1988.
Every year, the Eurovision Song Contest, a glitzy event with song and dance performances, captivates millions of viewers globally. The event is orchestrated by the European Broadcasting Union, headquartered in Geneva, involving numerous broadcasters from around the world. Switzerland’s first win and hosting of the contest date back to 1956 when it took place in the southern city of Lugano.