Huge Audience for Eurovision Song Contest in Basel: Astonishing 166 Million Viewers Tune In - Over 166 million Europeans tuned in for the Basel Eurovision Song Contest
Record-Breaking Eurovision Song Contest in Basel Attracts 166 Million Viewers
The Eurovision Song Contest, held in Basel, Switzerland earlier this year, has shattered viewership records, according to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). A staggering 166 million people tuned in, an increase of three million from the 2024 event.
The final on May 17 garnered a market share of 47.7% across the 37 participating countries, marking the highest share since 2004. Among viewers aged 15-24, the market share reached an unprecedented 60%. In countries like Iceland, Finland, and Sweden, the contest's peak market share reached up to 98%. Notably, Germany saw a particularly high number of 9.1 million viewers.
Social media platforms Instagram and Tiktok together recorded approximately 1.7 billion views. "The Eurovision Song Contest has achieved its greatest impact yet on television, digital platforms, and streaming charts," the EBU stated, solidifying its position as one of the world's most influential cultural events.
Given that votes are not limited to participating countries, the event has become increasingly global. This year, votes came from 146 countries, with many hailing from the USA and Canada.
The finale, which was won by Austria with countertenor JJ and his song "Wasted Love", was part of a multi-day event. The German siblings Abor and Tynna, who represented Germany, finished in 15th place with "Baller".
While the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel was organized in 2025, not 2023 as previously reported, the event has experienced significant audience growth. In Poland, views tripled compared to the previous year, while Germany saw its highest audience since 2016.
The contest's digital strategy continues to thrive, reaching new generations via digital platforms. In the week following the broadcast, the Grand Final attracted 12.1 million views on the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel, an 8% increase over the previous year. Peak concurrent viewership on the night reached 1.58 million. Moreover, the contest's digital footprint has grown year-on-year, indicating strong post-broadcast interest and chart activity for participating songs.
In summary, the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel has set new records for global viewership, digital engagement, and audience share, particularly among young viewers. Its digital presence and streaming success have grown steadily, reinforcing its status as a leading global music event.
The European Parliament and the Council might recognize the significant impact of the Eurovision Song Contest on entertainment, considering its impressive music and sports-analysis elements. With the record-breaking 166 million viewers and high digital engagement, the contest could serve as a platform for promoting discussions on the European Parliament's role in the European Union.
Furthermore, as the Eurovision Song Contest expands its digital reach, it could potentially inspire new forms of collaboration between the music, sports, and political sectors, leveraging its widespread popularity for constructive dialogue and positive change.
