Michele Mari denies sexist remarks about late writer Murgia as Strega Prize finale nears
Three weeks before the final, Italy's top literary award is rocked by an alleged sexist outburst from the favourite, who insists the conversation was misrepresented.
Incident on the tour
On 18 June, four of the six Strega Prize finalists were travelling in a van to Bisceglie as part of the promotional tour ahead of the 8 July finale in Rome. According to multiple reports, favourite Michele Mari, while talking with fellow finalist Elena Rui, made derogatory remarks about the late writer Michela Murgia. He allegedly said Murgia was "intransigent and violent because she was ugly" and that "all unsatisfied women who don't attract become angry." Teresa Ciabatti, a close friend of Murgia who died of cancer on 10 August 2023, intervened immediately.
Your remarks are unacceptable and these words cause me great pain.
The exchange, first published by la Repubblica, quickly spread through Italian literary circles, casting a shadow over the final stretch of the country's most prestigious book prize.
Denial and apology
Mari issued a public statement via his publisher Einaudi, denying he ever mentioned Murgia's appearance. He said he had merely recalled a past private misunderstanding with the Sardinian author and had no intention of offending her.
In relation to the uncontrolled rumors circulating about my dispute with Teresa Ciabatti, I want to clarify that I have never spoken about Michela Murgia's physical appearance, nor would I ever have dared.
The writer added that he and Ciabatti had since clarified the matter and he had apologised if any word had hurt her. Despite the stated reconciliation, Ciabatti skipped the tour event in Francavilla al Mare on 19 June.
Wider fallout
The controversy has potential to upend the final result. Mari entered the final-round selection with 280 votes, a clear lead. Matteo Nucci (242 votes) sits second, Bianca Pitzorno third, and Ciabatti fourth with about 180 votes. Mari's advantage could now erode if the voting body, already exposed to the leaked argument, shifts its support.
- Michele Mari
- 280
- Matteo Nucci
- 242
- Teresa Ciabatti
- 180
Organisers Fondazione Maria e Goffredo Bellonci released a statement acknowledging the reports without assigning blame. The tour continues with stops in northern Italy and later Mexico City and Guadalajara before the finale at Campidoglio.
Timeline of the dispute
- Alleged derogatory remarks about Murgia made during van journey to Bisceglie; heated exchange with Ciabatti.
- Ciabatti misses tour event in Francavilla al Mare. Mari's denial published via Einaudi.
- La Repubblica and other media break the story; Bellonci Foundation issues a statement.
- Strega Prize final ceremony scheduled at Campidoglio, Rome.
