Greece and Eurovision 2025: Will the Long-Awaited National Final Return?

As the dust settles after a busy summer of sports broadcasts, Greece’s public broadcaster, ERT, turns its attention to a pivotal question: How will the country select its representative for Eurovision 2025? With whispers of an open national final gaining traction, excitement is brewing among Greek Eurovision fans, and for good reason.

For the first time in over two decades, ERT is seriously considering a national selection process that will allow the Greek public to have a direct say in the country’s Eurovision entry. Though no official decision has been made, insiders suggest an announcement could be just weeks away.

The Case for a National Final

Eurovision is no small affair in Greece. With its massive following and high viewer ratings, ERT recognizes that the contest isn’t just a music competition; it’s an opportunity to capture the national imagination. The success of Marina Satti recently, particularly her remarkable performance and record-breaking viewership in 2023, has reignited interest in a more democratic, open selection process.

The idea of a national final isn’t just a nostalgia trip to Eurovision’s early days; it’s about engaging a wider audience and making the country’s representative a true reflection of public taste. It’s been a staggering 22 years since Greece last held an open national final, with the last one taking place in 2003. Since then, Greek Eurovision entries have mostly been chosen internally, with mixed results.

But the tide seems to be turning. The hunger for a transparent, fair, and fan-driven selection process is stronger than ever, especially after a few turbulent years for Greece at Eurovision. In 2024, while Marina Satti’s entry drew huge audiences, the question on many lips was why the public wasn’t more involved in the decision.

ERT, aware of the growing call for change, is looking at the success of other European countries that allow viewers to pick their entries. Countries like Sweden and Italy, where national finals are the heart of the Eurovision season, have seen both public engagement and artistic quality soar.

Record Labels Gearing Up for Battle

The news of a possible national final has already sent shockwaves through the Greek music industry. Record labels are gearing up for what promises to be a fierce competition, with many artists eager to throw their hat in the ring. For years, Eurovision has been viewed as the ultimate platform for up-and-coming talent, with the potential to launch careers on a global scale.

Labels, aware of the contest’s commercial and international appeal, are keen to get their best artists involved. The opportunity for wide exposure and the possibility of representing Greece on Europe’s biggest stage has become a tempting prospect for many artists. Already, discussions are buzzing about which big names and fresh faces might step forward, with some rumoured to have already expressed interest publicly.

As we approach the end of September, when official announcements are expected, artists and songwriters alike are preparing for what could be one of the most hotly contested national finals in recent Greek Eurovision history.

What Could the National Final Look Like?

While details are still under wraps, there’s speculation that the national final will feature a mix of established names and emerging talent, with a strong focus on ensuring a transparent and unbiased selection process. ERT is committed to letting the Greek public have a significant role in the outcome, something fans have long been calling for.

In fact, this public involvement is almost guaranteed, with ERT looking to mirror the model of other successful Eurovision countries. After all, Eurovision isn’t just about finding the best song—it’s about creating a cultural moment that unites the country and stirs up excitement in every corner of Greece.

On September 18th, at the prestigious Athens Conservatory, ERT will unveil its new programming for the upcoming season. Eurovision enthusiasts will be eagerly watching for any hints of what lies ahead. While logistical and technical hurdles could still emerge, it looks increasingly likely that Greece will host its first open national final in two decades.

Can Greece Return to Eurovision Glory?

For ERT, the goal for Eurovision 2025 is clear: a return to the Top 10, with a performance that not only resonates with viewers across Europe but makes Greeks proud of their entry. With a national final, there’s hope that the enthusiasm surrounding the selection process will carry through to the contest itself, reinvigorating Greece’s Eurovision journey.

The road to Eurovision 2025 in Basel is just beginning, and with the buzz around a potential national final growing, one thing is certain: Greece’s next Eurovision chapter could be one of the most exciting yet.

Stay tuned as more details emerge in the coming weeks. Eurovision season is just around the corner, and Greece might finally be ready to give the power back to the people.

Source: Eurovisionfun