North Macedonia Eyes Return to Eurovision 2025: Will They Compete Again?

After a hiatus from the Eurovision Song Contest recently, North Macedonia is hinting at a possible return to the contest in 2025. The country’s national broadcaster, MRT, recently unveiled its proposed programming plan for 2025, which includes both the Eurovision Song Contest and Junior Eurovision Song Contest. This has sparked excitement and curiosity among fans, as the broadcaster’s intentions regarding participation remain unclear. Could 2025 mark North Macedonia’s grand return to the Eurovision stage?

A Brief Hiatus from Eurovision

North Macedonia’s journey with Eurovision has been turbulent lately. The country withdrew from the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 held in Liverpool, United Kingdom, citing financial difficulties as the primary reason. This came as a disappointment to many, as the nation had competed consistently since 2004, and Eurovision had become an annual event that brought the country together, fostering both national pride and cultural exchange.

Although North Macedonia did not participate in the 2023 contest, they continued to air the competition, keeping the spirit of Eurovision alive in the hearts of viewers. This act hinted that despite the economic challenges, North Macedonia’s love for the contest has not faded. Fans are now eager to see if the country will take the stage again in Eurovision 2025, with hopes rekindled by MRT’s recent announcements.

A Presence in Junior Eurovision

While North Macedonia stepped back from the main Eurovision contest, the country has maintained its commitment to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. Over the years, North Macedonia has actively participated in Junior Eurovision, showcasing the next generation of musical talent. This dedication to nurturing young artists has kept the country in the Eurovision spotlight, even if not at the adult level.

The Junior Eurovision stage has provided a platform for North Macedonian children to share their culture, music, and creativity with Europe. This commitment to the Junior contest suggests that the country’s Eurovision journey is far from over, and that it may only be a matter of time before North Macedonia returns to the adult Eurovision contest.

North Macedonia’s Eurovision Journey

North Macedonia’s history in Eurovision dates back to 1998, but it wasn’t until 2004 that the country became a regular participant. Over the years, North Macedonia has experienced both triumphs and challenges on the Eurovision stage.

One of the country’s standout moments came in 2019, when Tamara Todevska delivered a powerful performance of «Proud», earning North Macedonia its best-ever result, finishing in an impressive 7th place. This marked a high point in the country’s Eurovision history and showcased the potential of North Macedonia to compete at the highest level.

However, the road has not always been smooth. Like many smaller nations, North Macedonia has faced struggles in qualifying for the final, often falling short despite delivering memorable performances. Yet, the country’s resilience and passion for music have kept them returning year after year—until the unfortunate break in 2023.

What Lies Ahead for Eurovision 2025?

With MRT’s plans to air Eurovision 2025, the big question remains: will North Macedonia compete? As of now, no official confirmation has been given, but the inclusion of both Eurovision and Junior Eurovision in the programming schedule for next year is a positive sign.

The decision to potentially re-enter the contest could mark a significant moment for North Macedonia, re-establishing its presence on the Eurovision stage and reigniting excitement among fans. Moreover, with many European nations placing a renewed focus on inclusivity, diversity, and cultural representation, North Macedonia’s return could offer a valuable addition to the rich tapestry of the contest.

Fans and music lovers alike will be watching closely as MRT continues to develop its Eurovision plans for 2025. The hope is that financial hurdles can be overcome, allowing North Macedonia to once again showcase its talent, culture, and spirit to the rest of Europe.

Source: MRT