Are we heading for an epic 8th Swedish victory in Basel next May when the Eurovision bandwagon lands in Switzerland for the third time in the history of the competition? Sweden has been leading the Eurovision 2025 odds for more than 6 weeks. Can the Swedes clinch another victory?

Get your towels ready and fire up the sauna—Sweden is back at the Eurovision Song Contest with a splash, and this time, they’re not just here to play, they’re here to sweat. Representing the Nordic nation at Eurovision 2025 in Basel is the buzzworthy group KAJ, armed with their infectious and delightfully quirky mega hit, “Bara Bada Bastu”. With the song climbing charts and going viral across Europe, betting sites like oddchecker.com are already tipping Sweden as the hot favourite to take the trophy—again.

Sweden is no stranger to Eurovision success. With seven wins already under its belt—starting from ABBA’s legendary victory in 1974 with “Waterloo” to Loreen’s epic double triumphs in 2012 and 2023—the country has become a powerhouse in the competition. In fact, they currently share the record for most Eurovision wins with Ireland. But if KAJ pulls it off this May, Sweden will break the tie and stand alone at the top with a record-breaking eighth win.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pfo-8z86x80

And let’s be honest—if there’s a country that knows how to balance iconic pop music with showmanship, it’s Sweden. The lineup of past winners reads like a Eurovision Hall of Fame: Herrey’s and their golden shoes in 1984, Carola’s wind machine moment in 1991, Charlotte Perrelli’s diva vibes in 1999, Måns Zelmerlöw’s animated stage wizardry in 2015… Sweden doesn’t just perform. It delivers.

This year, KAJ is turning up the heat—literally. “Bara Bada Bastu” (which loosely translates to “Just Sauna Stuff”) is a cheeky, upbeat ode to the beloved Swedish pastime of sweating it out in a steamy wooden room. The song is pure Eurovision gold: equal parts catchy, bizarre, and irresistibly fun. With its pumping synths, traditional Swedish folk elements, and a chorus that sticks in your head like a wet towel to your back, it’s no wonder the song is creating a frenzy from Stockholm to San Marino.

Beyond the novelty, KAJ brings serious musical chops and stage presence. Their live performances have featured choreographed towel routines, sauna benches, and even a giant inflatable birch whisk (yes, really). Critics are calling them a “perfect storm of Scandinavian charm, campy theatrics, and impeccable pop instincts.” It’s not hard to imagine the televoters falling head over clogs for them on finals night.

But winning Eurovision is never guaranteed. Sweden will face stiff competition from other fan favourites, and there’s always the wildcard of geopolitical voting patterns, unexpected dark horses, and last-minute staging surprises. Still, with odds firmly in their favour and a song that has both humor and heart, Sweden might just sweat its way to glory.

If KAJ clinches the win, it will be a historic moment. Sweden would become the most successful country in Eurovision history, finally edging out Ireland after decades of fierce friendly rivalry. It would also continue Sweden’s remarkable run of success in the 21st century, solidifying their position as the true monarchs of modern Eurovision.

So, whether you’re a die-hard Eurovision fan or just in it for the glitter, one thing’s for sure: Sweden is coming in hot to Basel—and if “Bara Bada Bastu” is any indication, Europe might just need a cold shower after this one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK3HOMhAeQY

Sweden has established itself as a true Eurovision powerhouse, garnering great results including 7 victories. The country has successfully hosted the contest 7 times: Stockholm (1975, 2000, 2016), Malmo ( 1992, 2013,2024) and in Gothenburg (1985).
Source: ESCToday
Photo credit: SVT/ eurovision.tv

Sanjay (Sergio) joined esctoday.com in December 2006 as an editor. He was appointed as the Head of Press of ESCToday.com in 2011. Hereafter in 2016 he was promoted as the Head of International Relations & Communications at ESCToday. Sergio has covered the Eurovision Song Contest live 22 times since 2000, having worked for several international magazines and media outlets.