Mogol Transported by Fire Department Helicopter: Political Storm in Italy

The Sanremo Festival, traditionally Italy's most important musical event, became the arena for a sharp parliamentary conflict in 2026. The spark of the dispute was the decision to transport Mogol, the eminent paroliere responsible for Lucio Battisti's greatest hits, using a helicopter belonging to the Vigili del Fuoco. After receiving the prestigious career award, the artist traveled to the capital aboard a state-owned aircraft, which opposition parties – including the Five Star Movement (M5S) and the Democratic Party (PD) – deemed a scandalous violation of public asset management standards. The use of military or rescue resources by civilians in Italy regularly resurfaces as a topic in debates about 'caste privileges,' harking back to historical disputes over so-called state flights (voli di Stato). Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi firmly denied accusations of wastefulness. He argued that Mogol's presence in Sanremo had a dimension beyond a regular stage performance and that the creator himself deserves the status of a national treasure. Simultaneously, the fire department command issued a statement emphasizing the maintenance of full operational readiness. According to the official version, the flight from Sanremo to Rome was conducted while maintaining 'uninterrupted rescue capability,' suggesting the aircraft was on a technical flight or repositioning, and the passenger's presence did not affect citizen safety. Mogol himself, visibly pleased with the journey, called the firefighters 'wonderful people' and the flight 'excellent.' Nevertheless, for government critics, this incident became a symbol of power arrogance. Opposition politicians point out that at a time when emergency services struggle with staff and equipment shortages, using their aviation units to transport showbiz stars – even those with legendary status – is a sign of misplaced priorities. The matter continues in parliament, where interpellations have been announced to clarify the exact costs and legal basis for using the helicopter for protocol purposes.