Czechia Shakes Up Eurovision: No National Final, Internal Selection in Play
In a surprising turn of events, Czechia has opted to abandon its national final process for selecting its Eurovision 2025 representative. Instead, the country will rely on an internal selection, with the decision resting in the hands of three distinct panels. With a looming September 30th deadline for submissions, both excitement and speculation are mounting.
This year, the Czech broadcaster, Česká televize, has decided to streamline the process. A 40% weighted vote from a Czech focus group will combine with an international jury of experts, also representing 40% of the vote. The remaining 20% will come from an internal committee of the Czech broadcaster itself. This strategic combination of local and international voices is designed to give the process a wider perspective, while ensuring that the final choice remains rooted in Czech culture and taste.
However, in a twist that could set the competition alight, the rules dictate that only Czech citizens are eligible to perform the selected songs. Songwriters from abroad are invited to participate, but their compositions will be paired with Czech performers by Česká televize, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the process.
Following Aiko’s performance at Eurovision 2024 with the song “Pedestal,” which narrowly missed the grand final after placing 11th in the second semi-final, Czechia is determined to make a stronger impression next year. While fans are disappointed that they won’t get to witness a national final with live performances, this internal selection method could bring fresh, carefully curated talent to the stage in Basel.
With this shift in strategy, it remains to be seen whether Czechia can rise to the challenge and make it back to the Eurovision finals. One thing is certain, though: the decision to move away from the public vote has already sparked plenty of debate and excitement within the Eurovision community.
As the submission deadline approaches, fans eagerly await the announcement of the Czech representative, hoping for a showstopper that will lead them to victory in Basel.
Source: EurovisionFun
