The competition is run by an opaque Swiss organization that wants to sidestep controversies that could spoil the fun.

Tonight's show in Basel sees performances from 18 of the 37 countries taking part, including the bookmakers’ favourite, KAJ.

Some Eurovision fans attending the first semi-final of the competition in Basel, Switzerland, on Tuesday (May 13) wore coffee-cup inspired headgear. Others draped themselves in flags or donned costumes.

Klavdia from Greece performs the song “Asteromata” during the dress rehearsal for the second semi-final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, in Basel, Switzerland, Wednesday, May 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner) Klavdia from Greece performs the song “Asteromata” during the dress rehearsal for the second semi-final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest,

Organized by the European Broadcasting Union, the 69th annual Eurovision Song Contest features the brightest up-and-coming singers and pop groups in 37 countries, including France, Germany, Sweden, Belgium,