In the last few minutes, Heat 1 of Chefsache ESC concluded at EMG Studio 8 in Hürth, Cologne. A jury consisting of industry experts Stefan Raab, Elton, Yvonne Catterfeld and Max Mutzke decided between them that the 7 best acts, who will now go on to the semi-final next Saturday to premiere their Eurovision entries, were:

• Julika
• Benjamin Braatz
• Cage
• Feuerschwanz
• Abor & Tynna
• Cosby
• Jonathan Henrich

A total of 14 acts, a combination of the best 7 across 2 heats held tonight and tomorrow night, will get to perform their Eurovision entry in the hopes of winning Germany’s ticket to Basel. Next week’s semi-final will determine a Top 9, who will perform in the final on Saturday 1 March, when the public alone will decide Germany’s entrant.

Having finished either last or second-last in the final at all but 2 of the last 9 Eurovision Song Contests, Germany is truly hoping that this year’s new format will change its fortunes this year. In 2024, Isaak was selected from a one-night national final to represent the country with Always On The Run, which went on to finish 12th in Malmö.

Who was your favourite from tonight’s first German show? Remember to follow ESCBubble across social media for exclusive Eurovision news, interviews, reviews, polls and more!