Before the final there were four heats and a second chance round, with all shows presented by Lena Philipsson, who won Melodifestivalen 2004 and subsequently represented Sweden in 2004.

With the votes from the jury and televote, Carola won the Melodifestivalen singing the song "Evighet" (Eternity).

Carola was also criticized for her prior statements about homosexuality and for her use of "personal assistants" who largely controlled what she said and didn't say when she appeared in public.

[citation needed] The controversy of Carolagate was further inflamed by a series of mysterious events during the semi-final from which she qualified (Gothenburg) and during the final in Stockholm itself.

Because Sweden placed 19th at the 2005 contest, Carola was forced to compete in the Eurovision semi-final she performed 20th, following Portugal and preceding Estonia.