Overview

• The 69th Eurovision Song Contest is hosted in Basel, Switzerland, following Swiss singer Nemo's 2024 victory with 'The Code.'
• Pro-Palestinian protests have targeted Israel's participation, prompting the deployment of 1,300 Swiss police and additional forces for security.
• Israeli contestant Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the October 2023 Hamas attack, is performing 'New Day Will Rise' in the second semi-final.
• The first semi-final airs today, featuring 15 competing acts, including Sweden’s KAJ, the bookmakers' favorite with their song 'Bara Bada Bastu.'
• The Grand Final will take place on May 17 at St. Jakobshalle, with Switzerland and the Big Five countries already qualified.