Claude to Represent Netherlands at 2025 Eurovision Song Contest
AVROTROS has announced that Claude will be flying the Dutch flag at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland. The 21-year-old singer, known for hits like "Ladada (Mon Dernier Mot)", "Layla", and "Écoutez-moi", will perform a "hit-sensitive song" that combines Dutch and French, his two main languages.
Claude, who fled Congo with his family at the age of 13, expressed his excitement and honor to represent the Netherlands on the Eurovision stage. "I’m really looking forward to performing my song for Europe," he said. The Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled for May 13, 15, and 17 in Basel.
The selection committee, consisting of Cornald Maas, Jacqueline Govaert, Sander Lantinga, Hila Noorzai, Carolien Borgers, and Jaap Reesema, chose Claude from 331 entries, including submissions from established artists like Anouk and Gerard Joling. The committee praised Claude’s song for its meaningful and connecting lyrics, international appeal, and potential to capture the hearts of both young and adult viewers.
Claude’s Eurovision entry will be revealed in March. In the meantime, fans can enjoy his recent debut album, "Parler Français", and catch him performing at the next Pinkpop festival.
AVROTROS’ participation in the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest comes after a brief period of uncertainty following Joost Klein’s disqualification at this year’s event in Malmö. After discussions with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), AVROTROS decided to participate, with the EBU promising changes such as a conduct code, dedicated artist support, and restrictions on filming in artist zones. Klein was offered the chance to redeem himself in Basel but declined the offer.
