Road to Basel: Georgia
Road to Basel: Georgia! As the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel approaches, we continue our daily spotlight on this year’s contestants. Today, we focus on Georgia.
photo: GPB
Mariam Shengelia
Mariam Shengelia is a 22-year-old Georgian singer hailing from Mingrelia. She gained national recognition through her participation in various Georgian talent shows, including X Factor Georgia and Georgian Idol. In 2025, she finished as the runner-up in Tsekvaven Varskvlavebi, the Georgian version of Dancing with the Stars. Mariam is also a member of the Georgian music band Mix2ura. ​
“Freedom”
Georgia’s Eurovision entry, “Freedom,” is a powerful ballad performed in both Georgian and English. The song was composed by Keti Gabisiani with lyrics by Buka Kartozia. “Freedom” conveys a message of hope and determination, emphasizing a deep love for freedom and homeland. The official music video, directed by Kakha Bukhrashvili, features artistic direction by Shako Popiashvili and Nino Tsulaia.
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Internal Selection Process
The Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) internally selected Mariam Shengelia to represent Georgia at Eurovision 2025. The song “Freedom” was chosen from 18 applications received by GPB, along with 20 entries submitted by foreign composers. The selection was announced on 14 March 2025, with the song’s release coinciding with the announcement. ​
Georgia in the Eurovision Song Contest
Georgia has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 16 times since its debut in 2007. The country’s best results came in 2010 with Sofia Nizharadze‘s “Shine” and in 2011 with Eldrine‘s “One More Day,” both achieving ninth place. Last year, Nutsa Buzaladze managed to bring Georgia back to the final after six years.​
A Random Georgian Entry
Reflecting on Georgia’s Eurovision history, random.org chose 2021. Tornike Kipiani won Georgian Idol on New Years Eve 2020. Therefore he got the ticket to represent his country in 2020. Due to COVID19 he had to wait a year. The song was called “You”.Â
Betting Odds
As of now, Mariam Shengelia’s “Freedom” is 34th in the betting odds in order to win the Eurovision Song Contest. In the semifinal 2 odds the song is even last. That means it’s gonna be tough for Georgia, but nothing is impossible. Let’s wait and see.​
We eagerly await the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel and look forward to witnessing Mariam Shengelia’s performance on the grand stage.