Montenegro’s Eurovision 2025 Journey risking: Will «Clickbait» Face the Axe?

The drama has arrived earlier than expected for Eurovision 2025, and Montenegro is at the centre of it all. “Clickbait,” the edgy track selected to mark Montenegro’s much-anticipated return to the Eurovision stage, faces potential disqualification. Why? Allegations have surfaced that the song may have been performed publicly in 2023—well before the eligibility cut-off date of September 1, 2024.
A video clip circulating online shows the band NeoneoN performing what appears to be their winning entry at the Zabjelo Culture Festival last year. If verified, this could spell trouble for the group and their Eurovision dreams. According to Eurovision rules, any song submitted must be original and not publicly performed or released before the designated cut-off date.
RTCG, Montenegro’s national broadcaster, is not taking these accusations lightly. Danijel Alibabić, head of Montesong 2024, confirmed that an investigation is underway in collaboration with the Association of Montenegrin Artists. “If the evidence holds up, disqualification is a real possibility,” Alibabić said in a statement. A final decision is expected tomorrow after consulting the EBU.
However, NeoneoN has fought back. Taking to Instagram, the band insists that the version performed at the Zabjelo Festival differs significantly from their official Eurovision entry, stating it was merely an earlier iteration and was never commercially released.
What happens if NeoneoN is disqualified? RTCG has yet to confirm contingency plans, leaving fans speculating whether the runner-up could take their place or through internal selection will be initiated.
Stay tuned—this story is far from over. Eurovision wouldn’t be Eurovision without a healthy dose of #EuroDrama.
Source: RTCG