Watch the emotional winning performance by JJ with “Wasted Love”!
“This was a dream,” said group member Asnate Rancāne after the contest. “We still need to process everything, but receiving such recognition from countries with high musical standards — that’s an incredible honor.” She added that the group is exhausted but satisfied: “We’re going to celebrate, and we definitely want to participate again in the future!”
Watch “Tautumeitas” powerful Eurovision final performance here!
Second place went to Israel’s Yuval Rafael with “New Day Will Rise”, while Estonian artist Tommy Cash secured third place with the energetic “Espresso Macchiato”, just one point behind Israel.
The grand final was hosted by Michelle Hunziker, Hazel Brugger, and Sandra Studer. Last year’s winner, Nemo, opened the event, bringing Eurovision to Switzerland. Tension remained high between the jury and public votes until the very end, when JJ from Austria overtook the competition to win.
Interestingly, bookmakers had only predicted 20th place for “Tautumeitas” before the contest. However, the group proved them wrong with a heartfelt performance, impressive stage visuals, and strong vocals that captured Europe’s attention. As the group stated — this is only the beginning, and their future plans include continuing to share Latvian culture and language with the world.