Basel, Switzerland — Austria claimed its third victory at the Eurovision Song Contest with singer JJ captivating audiences with the operatic pop anthem “Wasted Love.” This year’s grand final, held in Switzerland, marked Austria’s first win since Conchita Wurst’s celebrated triumph in 2014.
JJ, a classically trained performer with Austrian and Filipino roots, impressed the crowd with powerful vocals, enhanced by a striking stage design that evoked the imagery of a shipwreck. The emotional depth of the song resonated with voters across Europe, solidifying Austria’s place at the top of the leaderboard.
Israel followed closely behind in second place, with Yuval Raphael delivering a poignant performance of “New Day Will Rise,” notably framed against the backdrop of her experience as a survivor of the Hamas attacks on October 7. Estonia secured third place, while San Marino ended the competition in last position.
In interviews prior to the final, JJ expressed gratitude for the positive reception of his work. He shared that the song reflects his own struggles with unreciprocated love, adding, “If I win, I will probably break down and call my family.” His reflections highlight the deeply personal nature of his artistry.
The Eurovision final serves not only as a celebration of music but also as a significant event for the LGBTQ+ community, attracting widespread attention and showcasing a diverse array of performers. This year’s lineup featured eclectic acts, including a Latvian ethno-pop band blending folk chants with imaginative storytelling, a Ukrainian glam rock group, and an Estonian artist humorously critiquing Italian coffee culture.
Though anticipation built for a potential appearance by Celine Dion, the iconic artist and previous winner, her presence did not materialize. Such moments are part of the allure that keeps fans engaged with the competition’s unpredictable nature.
While Eurovision is intended as a celebration of artistic expression, it has not remained untouched by political tensions. The exclusion of Russia and Belarus from this year’s event following ongoing conflicts has generated discussion about the intersection of art and politics. Additionally, the participation of Israel faced scrutiny due to the country’s current military actions in Gaza.
Raphael’s performance took place amid a charged atmosphere, with Palestinian flags visible in the audience. Moments after her act, an incident occurred when two people attempted to rush the stage, one throwing paint. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the crew or audience members.
As the night concluded, Austria’s victory echoed a new chapter in Eurovision history, reminding fans of the power of music to transcend boundaries and personal experiences, while also navigating the complex socio-political landscape of contemporary Europe.