Austria Wins Eurovision 2025 Amid Protests in Basel
Austria wins Eurovision 2025 while protests against Israel escalate in Basel.
Key Points
- • Austria wins Eurovision 2025 with "Wasted Love," earning 436 points.
- • Israel and Estonia secure second and third places with 357 and 356 points respectively.
- • Pro-Palestinian protests erupt in Basel, leading to police using rubber bullets and tear gas.
- • The contest features a record number of performances not in English.
In a dramatic conclusion to the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 held in Basel, Switzerland, Austria emerged victorious with the operatic pop ballad "Wasted Love" performed by Johannes 'JJ' Pietsch. The song scored a remarkable 436 points, leading the standings and showcasing the event's highly competitive nature.
Israel finished in second place with 357 points, closely followed by Estonia with 356 points, while Sweden's anticipated contender KAJ fell to fourth with 321 points. JJ expressed his gratitude for the support, stating, “Thank you, Europe, for making my dreams come true.” The competition featured a notable diversity of performances, including a record number of songs sung in languages other than English, reflecting the cultural richness of the event.
However, alongside the celebration of music, the contest was marred by significant unrest. Approximately 500 pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in Basel, protesting against Israel's participation in the contest. Clashes ensued when protesters entered the city center despite police restrictions. Reports indicate that tensions escalated when some protesters threw bottles at police, leading authorities to respond with rubber bullets and tear gas. Many protesters attempted to shield themselves using umbrellas during the confrontation, which spotlighted ongoing conflicts surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
This year’s Eurovision was not just about the music but also about political expression, highlighting both the passion for cultural celebration and the fervent voices seeking justice.