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Eurovision Key Contenders (2025)
As the excitement builds for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, fans across Europe — and the world — are gearing up for one of the biggest musical events of the year.
Hosted in Basel, Switzerland, this year’s contest promises another dazzling celebration of music, performance, and national pride.
The competition officially kicked off with the first semi-final on Tuesday 13 May at 8pm (UK time), followed by the second semi-final on Thursday 15 May, and culminating in the highly anticipated Grand Final on Saturday 17 May.
As the first semi-final gets underway, all eyes are on the top contenders in the betting markets. Here’s a look at the five frontrunners for Eurovision 2025, based on current odds and fan buzz.
Bet on Eurovision semi-finals with William Hill
Sweden – EVS
Sweden is no stranger to Eurovision success, having racked up seven wins, placing them joint-first alongside Ireland for the most victories in the contest’s history. Their 2025 entry, KAJ, is aiming to add another trophy to the cabinet with their powerful and polished performance.
Riding high on the legacy of Loreen’s 2023 win with ‘Tattoo’, KAJ have emerged as clear favourites and are odds-on to win this year. With strong staging, a catchy hook, and plenty of fan support, Sweden is once again the act to beat.
Austria – 9/4
Austria is sending JJ (Johannes Pietsch) to the stage, a talented singer-songwriter from Vienna who will perform “Wasted Love”. Known for his operatic vocal style, JJ stands out in a field of pop-heavy acts.
His haunting performance and emotional delivery have resonated with fans and juries alike. Featuring in the second semi-final on Thursday 15 May, JJ is Austria’s big hope for another top-tier finish, and the market clearly agrees with JJ priced as short as 11/4.
Netherlands – 9/1
Dutch act Claude Kiambe, 21, went through with his track C’est La Vie, a blend of English and French that promotes a message of dealing with life as it is, as did current favourites KAJ with the Swedish song Bara Bada Bastu, about Nordic sauna culture.
Sweden, Ukraine and the Netherlands have qualified for the final of the Eurovision Song Contest.
France – 12/1
France is automatically through to the Grand Final as part of the ‘Big Five’, and they’re putting their hopes in beloved singer and actress Louane, performing the heartfelt ballad “maman”. This emotional tribute resonates deeply with audiences and showcases Louane’s powerful voice.
While ballads can be hit-or-miss, this one seems to be hitting the right emotional notes. France has long been chasing another win since their last victory in 1977, and this year’s entry gives them a solid shot.
Israel – 16/1
Rounding out the top five is Israel, represented by Yuval Raphael with the inspirational anthem “New Day Will Rise”. With its uplifting message and dynamic staging, this performance could well be a dark horse.
Israel has enjoyed Eurovision success in recent years, and Yuval’s soaring vocals might just carry them back to the top.
