Sat. Feb 8th, 2025
The stage design for the Arena plus pre-show and live viewingThe stage design for the Arena plus | Picture: SRG SSR

In addition to unveiling the hosts for the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, Swiss broadcaster SRG SSRintroduced two more key figures who will play a vital role in the event: Mélanie Freymond and Sven Epiney.

The duo will host the Arena plus pre-show party and the public viewing of the Grand Final at St. Jakob-Park, Switzerland’s largest football stadium. They will also announce the Swiss points during the Grand Final voting segment, adding another layer of excitement to the evening.

The stage design for the Arena plus pre-show and live viewing | Pictures: SRG SSR

Co-Executive Producers of Eurovision 2025, Moritz Stadler and Reto Peritz, commented on the hosting lineup:

“For the world’s biggest show, it was important for us to recruit hosts who bring more than just presenting skills – Hazel, Sandra, and Michelle bring unique versatility with additional talents such as comedy, dance, and singing. Together with Mélanie and Sven, our two hosts for the Arena plus public viewing, they form a true dream team that will delight audiences around the world! Together, the team reflects the cultural and linguistic diversity of our country and embodies Switzerland’s openness, its ability to bridge cultures, and its feeling of being home to everyone – true to our Swiss motto ‘Welcome Home’.”

Arena plus: A Grand Viewing Experience

If you can’t secure a ticket to the Grand Final at St. Jakobshalle, the Arena plus at St. Jakob-Park promises an electrifying alternative.

With space for approximately 36,000 fans, the Arena plus will feature a 90-minute pre-show starring both national and international artists, including:

Baby Lasagna, whose Eurovision 2024 hit Rim Tim Tagi Dim captivated global audiences and became a chart-topping success.

DJ Antoine, Switzerland’s most successful music export, known for hits like Welcome to St. Tropez and Ma Chérie.

Anna Rossinelli, who represented Switzerland at Eurovision 2011 with In Love for a While. She has since topped Swiss charts, starred in hit shows like Tschugger, and remains deeply connected to her hometown of Basel.

The Grand Final will then be streamed live on giant screens, creating an immersive experience for fans. Tickets for the Arena plus range from CHF 55 to CHF 128, with a special CHF 5 admission for children in the family corner. Tickets will be available via TicketCorner starting 10:00 CET on Thursday, 30 January.

Meet the Arena Plus Hosts

Mélanie Freymond and Sven Epiney | Photo: Gian Vaitl

Mélanie Freymond

At 47, Mélanie Freymond is a seasoned presenter for RTS (Radio Télévision Suisse), known for hosting entertainment and cultural programs. Her career began with children’s programming, and she has since built a reputation as a trusted journalist in radio and television.

Sven Epiney

Sven Epiney, 53, has been a prominent figure in Swiss media since the 1990s. As SRF’s Eurovision commentator since 2008, he brings extensive experience, having hosted over 3,000 TV shows and 1,500 radio broadcasts. Sven will continue as SRF’s commentator while hosting the Arena plus.

Beyond the Live Shows: A Celebration for All

The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 aims to extend beyond the arena, engaging the Swiss community with a variety of cultural and educational initiatives.

Arena plus pre-show: A dazzling opening to the public viewing, featuring beloved Eurovision and Swiss artists.

Educational programs: From February 2025, SRF School will offer Eurovision-themed materials in Switzerland’s four national languages, including workshops and a video song contest for schools.

Community projects: Initiatives like a children’s choir performing in retirement homes, a party for seniors, urban art installations, and exhibitions will make Basel 2025 a nationwide celebration.

Creative collaborations: Partnerships with Swiss universities will allow students to contribute to Eurovision events, including the Semi-Final Draw and Opening Ceremony broadcasts.

A Platform for Young Talent

Eurovision 2025 will provide a unique opportunity for Swiss students to showcase their creativity. Collaborations with institutions like the University of Applied Sciences Graubünden will empower students to take an active role in broadcasting and social media campaigns, setting new creative standards for the contest.

Basel 2025: A Global Event with a Local Heart

With Mélanie Freymond and Sven Epiney joining the team, alongside an impressive lineup of hosts and performers, Eurovision 2025 promises to be a memorable celebration of music, culture, and community. Switzerland’s motto Welcome Home will resonate through every aspect of this landmark event.

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