The Eurovision semi finals have just wrapped up their first heat of 2025 in Basel, Switzerland, and the results are already setting social media ablaze. On May 13, the St. Jakobshalle arena was alive with the sound of fifteen nations battling for a spot in Saturday’s Grand Final. The Eurovision semi finals always promise drama, but this year’s contest has already delivered more twists than anyone expected.
Eurovision Semi Finals: Breaking News and Results
Last night’s Eurovision semi finals were hosted by Hazel Brugger and Sandra Studder, who kept the show moving with wit and style. The audience was on the edge of their seats as each act performed, knowing only ten would make it through. After a night of dazzling lights and emotional ballads, these countries advanced to the Grand Final:
- Norway – Kyle Alessandro, “Lighter”
- Albania – Shkodra Elektronike, “Zjerm”
- Sweden – KAJ, “Bara bada bastu”
- Iceland – VÆB, “Róa”
- Netherlands – Claude, “C’est la vie”
- Poland – Justyna Steczkowska, “Gaja”
- San Marino – Gabry Ponte, “Tutta l’Italia”
- Estonia – Tommy Cash, “Espresso macchiato”
- Portugal – NAPA, “Deslocado”
- Ukraine – Ziferblat, “Bird of Pray”
Five acts saw their Eurovision journey end: Theo Evan, Marko Bošnjak, Klemen, Red Sebastian, and Mamagama.
Eurovision Semi Finals: Big Surprises and Emotional Highlights
Unexpected Qualifiers
The Eurovision semi finals are famous for upsets. This year, Iceland’s “Róa” was a dark horse but managed to capture enough votes to proceed. Portugal’s NAPA also surprised many, qualifying despite low odds and delivering a performance that touched viewers.
Shocking Exits
Cyprus and Belgium, both considered strong contenders, did not make it through. Fans were left stunned as these favorites missed out on a place in the Grand Final.
Ukraine’s Powerful Performance
Ukraine’s Ziferblat took the stage with “Bird of Pray,” a song that resonated deeply given the country’s ongoing struggles. Their emotional performance earned them a well-deserved place in the final.
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Eurovision Semi Finals: The Draw for the Grand Final
After the results, the qualifiers took part in the draw to determine their position in Saturday’s Grand Final. Here’s how the allocation looks so far:
| Country | Final Half Allocation |
|---|---|
| Spain | First Half |
| Iceland | First Half |
| Ukraine | First Half |
| Albania | Second Half |
| Portugal | Second Half |
| Italy | Producer’s Choice |
| Norway | Producer’s Choice |
| Sweden | Producer’s Choice |
| Poland | Producer’s Choice |
| Netherlands | Producer’s Choice |
| San Marino | Producer’s Choice |
| Estonia | Producer’s Choice |
The complete running order will be announced after the second Eurovision semi finals on May 15.
Eurovision Semi Finals: How Voting Changed the Game
Since 2023, the Eurovision semi finals have relied entirely on public televoting. This system puts the power in the hands of viewers, making every vote count. The “Big Five” (UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy) and the host country automatically qualify for the Grand Final but still vote in one of the semis.
Performance order and stage presence have never been more important. Acts that perform later often have a slight advantage, but standout performances can come from anywhere in the lineup. This year’s results prove that even the experts can’t always predict what will happen.
Eurovision Semi Finals: What’s Next?
With the first heat finished, attention turns to the second Eurovision semi finals, scheduled for May 15. The competition will be fierce, with countries like Australia, Ireland, Israel, Finland, Latvia, Armenia, Austria, Lithuania, Malta, and Czechia all hoping to secure a place in the Grand Final.
Key Dates:
- Second Eurovision semi finals: May 15, 2025
- Grand Final: May 17, 2025, Basel, Switzerland
Standout Moments from the Eurovision Semi Finals
- Norway’s Kyle Alessandro opened the night with “Lighter,” setting a high-energy tone.
- Estonia’s Tommy Cash brought a quirky, memorable performance with “Espresso macchiato.”
- Sweden’s KAJ got the crowd moving with “Bara bada bastu.”
- Portugal’s NAPA delivered an emotional, unexpected qualifying moment.
- Ukraine’s Ziferblat gave a haunting, unforgettable performance.
Eurovision Semi Finals: Who Didn’t Make It?
Not every act could move forward. Here are the five who missed out:
- Theo Evan – “Shh”
- Marko Bošnjak – “Poison Cake”
- Klemen – “How Much Time Do We Have Left”
- Red Sebastian – “Strobe Lights”
- Mamagama – “Run with U”
Their Eurovision story ends here, but their performances will be remembered.
What to Expect in the Next Eurovision Semi Finals
The second Eurovision semi finals are just around the corner. With so many strong entries, fans can expect more surprises and possibly another round of shock qualifiers. Australia, Israel, and Finland are tipped as favorites, but this contest always keeps everyone guessing.
Why the Eurovision Semi Finals Matter
The Eurovision semi finals are more than just a stepping stone to the Grand Final. They showcase new talent, highlight unexpected favorites, and bring together millions of viewers from across the continent. Each year, the semi finals remind us that Eurovision is about more than just music-it’s about community, creativity, and the excitement of the unknown.
Eurovision Semi Finals 2025: Quick Recap
| Qualified for Final | Not Qualified |
|---|---|
| Norway | Theo Evan |
| Albania | Marko Bošnjak |
| Sweden | Klemen |
| Iceland | Red Sebastian |
| Netherlands | Mamagama |
| Poland | |
| San Marino | |
| Estonia | |
| Portugal | |
| Ukraine |
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
The Eurovision semi finals have set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Grand Final in Basel. With unexpected qualifiers, emotional performances, and a lineup full of surprises, Eurovision 2025 is already one for the history books. As the second semi-final approaches, fans are buzzing with predictions and excitement. Who will join the finalists, and who will steal the show on Saturday night? Stay tuned-the Eurovision story is far from over.