Duc Phuc, who won the 2025 Intervision Song Contest in Moscow. Political conditions were extraordinarily hostile and fractious, but against this backdrop he succeeded. Australian singer Vassy—real name Vasiliki Karagiorgos—bowed out of the competition just days before it began. She was hit with both unprecedented political pressure and intervention from the Australian government. The event was broadcast live on Russian television and mesmerized audiences across the region. It cast an enormous shadow over a joint population of more than 4 billion people.
Artists from dozens of countries vied for the top spot in the annual contest. Duc Phuc’s victory won him a cool cash prize of 30 million roubles—about $546,000. The jury that selected the eventual winner featured members from each competing nation. This original composition really highlighted the global importance of this event.
Political Pressure Leads to Withdrawal
Vassy’s withdrawal has drawn a political earthquake’s worth of coverage, well illustrating the political stakes underlying the race. The Russian organizers attributed her decision to “unprecedented political pressure from the government of Australia.” This decree has sparked debate over the impact of political motivations on art creation and participation in global expositions.
In a deeply personal post, Vassy shared her disappointment and anger over what had unfolded.
“While it’s heartbreaking for the fans and the music that I had to withdraw, I want to ensure I’m doing the right thing and following proper guidance.” – Vassy
Vassy’s predicament is indicative of a larger uneasiness that exists amongst artists who are at the mercy of outside forces that can impact their careers and decisions.
Contest Highlights and Participants
The Intervision Song Contest featured an impressive variety of musical talent, incorporating performers from twelve different countries. Together with Duc Phuc, Brazil was represented by Luciano Calazans and Thais Nader, while Zena Emad represented Saudi Arabia. Shaman, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, was Russia’s entrant but requested that the jury disregard his performance due to the contest being hosted in Moscow.
Russian president Vladimir Putin opened the final with an address delivered via video link. He emphasized the unprecedented pace of change and the unknown future facing these contestants, and wished them all good luck. His comments provided an appropriate official tone for the event, which was as full of celebration as it has been of controversy.
Duc Phuc’s Victory
Duc Phuc’s victory at the Intervision Song Contest is a testament to his incredible talent and journey of self-discovery. It further highlights the complex realities of cultural exchange within a broadly politicized context. As he celebrates this major milestone in his career, the implications of Vassy’s withdrawal remain a poignant reminder of how external factors can shape the landscape of international art and performance.
