Austria Bets Again on Internal Selection for Eurovision 2025 After Reflecting on Their Performance in Malmö
As the final notes of Eurovision 2024 fade into memory, Austria has already set its sights on the next contest in Switzerland. The country, known for its strategic internal selections of both artists and songs, is once again preparing to follow this approach for Eurovision 2025. The last time Austria held a televised selection was for the 2016 contest in Stockholm.
Austria in Malmö 2024
Austria’s journey in Malmö concluded with Kaleen’s electrifying performance of «We Will Rave,» which, despite landing in the penultimate position, captivated over a million viewers on the public broadcaster ORF. Kaleen, a 29-year-old singer and dancer, displayed remarkable sportsmanship in accepting the results. «I am not disappointed at all, and I don’t need to sugarcoat anything. What mattered most to me was being allowed to be here,» she stated gracefully.
Plans for Switzerland 2025
Looking forward to Switzerland 2025, Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung has revealed that the trio AUT of Orda has expressed interest in representing Austria. The group is set to meet with Eberhard Forcher, the head of Austria’s Eurovision delegation, in June to begin discussions. This early initiative highlights Austria’s commitment to preparing a strong entry for the next contest.
Austria’s Eurovision History: Fun Facts
Austria’s history in Eurovision is filled with interesting anecdotes and milestones. Here are a few fun facts about Austria’s participation in the contest:
- First Win: Austria won the Eurovision Song Contest for the first time in 1966 with Udo Jürgens’ song «Merci, Chérie.» Jürgens had competed in the previous two years before finally clinching the victory.
- Longest Wait Between Wins: Conchita Wurst’s victory in 2014 with «Rise Like a Phoenix» ended a 48-year wait for Austria’s second win, making it one of the longest gaps between victories in Eurovision history.
- Unique Entries: Austria has been known for some unique and memorable entries, including Alf Poier’s «Weil der Mensch zählt» in 2003, which humorously critiqued modern society, and Trackshittaz’s «Woki mit deim Popo» in 2012, which featured a memorable performance involving illuminated poles.
- Historical Comeback: In 2011, Austria returned to the contest after a three-year hiatus, and Nadine Beiler’s «The Secret Is Love» successfully brought them back to the final, finishing in 18th place.
Audience Reception and Future Prospects
Despite not securing a top spot in Malmö, the strong viewer turnout and positive reception underscore Austria’s enduring enthusiasm for Eurovision. The public’s engagement and support are crucial as the country gears up for another round of preparations for 2025.
Kaleen’s reflective and positive attitude, combined with the strategic planning for the next contest, exemplifies Austria’s resilience and passion for Eurovision. As the trio AUT of Orda prepares to take the stage, potentially in Switzerland, fans can look forward to another year of creative and compelling performances from Austria.
