The official press conference for the 76th edition of the Sanremo Italian Song Festival was marked by emotional moments and political controversies. Artistic director Carlo Conti and co-host Laura Pausini announced that this year's event is entirely dedicated to Pippo Baudo, who passed away in August. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denied rumors about her presence at the Ariston Theatre, calling them "FantaSanremo." The first special guests are arriving in the city, including Turkish actor Can Yaman.

Tribute to Pippo Baudo

The festival is dedicated to the legendary presenter; Carlo Conti announces numerous references to his hosting style.

Giorgia Meloni's Denial

The Italian Prime Minister ruled out her participation in the festival, putting an end to speculation about the politicization of the event.

Laura Pausini as Co-host

The star returns to Sanremo to co-host this year's song contest alongside Conti.

Arrival of Can Yaman

The Turkish actor is one of the most anticipated special guests of this year's edition.

During the first official press conference ahead of the start of the Sanremo Festival 2026, Carlo Conti did not hide his emotion while recalling the figure of Pippo Baudo. Conti declared that this year's edition will be a "Baudo-style festival," which will be reflected in a symbolic gesture during the descent of the famous Ariston Theatre stairs. Laura Pausini, in turn, revealed that it was Baudo who, in March of last year, convinced her she was ready to host this prestigious event. The festive musical atmosphere was complemented by a phone prank from Fiorello, who wished journalists "numerous polemics" and announced Conti's participation in a morning radio program. The Sanremo Festival, inaugurated in 1951 at the municipal casino, is the oldest and most important song contest in Italy, serving as the direct inspiration for the creation of the Eurovision Song Contest. The political thread dominated a significant part of the media meeting. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni categorically denied reports of her planned stage appearance, calling them fabricated information. Carlo Conti, asked about alleged favoritism towards the current government, emphasized his professional independence, stating that political labels change with successive governments, while he has remained a "free man" for 40 years. Can Yaman has already arrived in Sanremo, whose presence is causing great excitement among fans, and the media is reporting on his specific hotel requirements, such as coffee and pecans. „Quando c'era Renzi sono stato definito renziano, oggi meloniano. Per fortuna in questi 40 anni sono un uomo libero.” (When Renzi was there, I was called a Renzi supporter, today a Meloni supporter. Fortunately, for these 40 years I have been a free man.) — Carlo Conti The event attracts not only music stars but also pop culture icons. The editorial staff of "Tv Sorrisi e Canzoni" awarded the prestigious Telegatto statuettes to the Conti-Pausini duo for their contribution to promoting Italian music. Intensive logistical preparations are underway in the city, and hotels are almost fully booked. Special security measures accompany the arrival of foreign guests, including the expected visit of Can Yaman, who is arriving directly from Madrid. „La mia presenza all'Ariston è FantaSanremo. Faccio il mio lavoro.” (My presence at the Ariston is FantaSanremo. I do my job.) — Giorgia Meloni

Mentioned People

  • Carlo Conti — Artistic director and host of the Sanremo Festival.
  • Laura Pausini — Italian singer and co-host of Sanremo 2026.
  • Can Yaman — Turkish actor, special guest of the festival.
  • Fiorello — Popular Italian comedian and television presenter.