A ‘wildcard’ act will join the six contenders vying to represent Ireland at Eurovision 2025 in Basel, broadcaster RTÉ has confirmed.

On Thursday’s Ray D’Arcy Show, Irish Head of Delegation Michael Kealy revealed that this act had been personally invited to participate in Eurosong, the nation’s selection proces:

“As you know, over the last few years, we’ve been kind of reserving the right to sort of fast-track entries to the [Eurosong] final that we think are exceptional or they’re artists that we know well, that we feel could do well in the competition…

So we have one artist that we have invited to take part in our Eurosong. They’re Irish and I’m very excited. They’re somebody who’s been on my radar for quite a long time and I’m just really delighted that they’ve decided to throw their hat in the ring this time.”

While the identity of this mystery act remains under wraps, rumours suggest it could be Lyra, an electro-pop artist from County Cork.

Kealy also reflected on the success of Ireland’s 2024 act Bambie Thug, who secured a 6th-place finish in the Grand Final:

“We had the best result in 24 years last year. It makes a huge difference when we get a result like that…

I don’t think we would do well by trying to look for Bambie II. They’re such a unique performer, unique individual. I think we would be on a hiding to nothing trying to find another one. In fact, I don’t think there is another one out there.”

The competing songs and artists will be unveiled on The Ray D’Arcy Show on RTÉ Radio 1 next week, airing weekdays at 3 p.m.

The Late Late Show Eurosong Special is set for Friday, February 7th, at 22:35 CET.

Who do you think should fly the flag for Ireland in 2025? Let us know below or on our socials!