Overview

• Ten acts, including Sweden's favorite KAJ with their sauna-themed song, secured spots in the Eurovision 2025 Grand Final after the first semi-final in Basel, Switzerland.
• Five countries, including Belgium and Croatia, were eliminated, while Switzerland, Spain, and Italy automatically advanced as host and 'Big Five' nations.
• Organizers are addressing a suspected hack that leaked rehearsal footage online, deploying cybersecurity teams and legal experts to mitigate the breach.
• Protests related to Israel's participation are anticipated throughout the week, with Basel police preparing for demonstrations by pro-Palestinian and anti-Semitism groups.
• Eurovision continues to balance its cultural celebration with political tensions, emphasizing its values of neutrality and inclusivity amid ongoing challenges.