Stefano De Martino and Carlo Conti Navigate Sanremo 2026 Preparations

The 2026 Sanremo Music Festival is shaping up to be an edition unlike any other. For the first time in its history, the festival will be held from February 24th to 28th, shifting from its traditional timeframe to accommodate the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina [Source: 361magazine.com]. This 76th edition is already generating significant anticipation.

Carlo Conti Returns as Artistic Director

Following Amadeus’s five-year run, Carlo Conti is returning to lead the Ariston Theatre. He will serve not only as the host but also as the artistic director, responsible for selecting the songs and artists that will define the festival’s balance between tradition and innovation [Source: 361magazine.com]. Conti expressed the challenge of narrowing down the submissions, aiming for a lineup of 26 songs, though he previously exceeded that number in a past edition [Source: 361magazine.com].

Conti’s Perspective on Stefano De Martino

Carlo Conti has publicly praised Stefano De Martino, who is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming festival. Conti highlighted De Martino’s timing, presence, discipline, and background in dance as qualities that will contribute to his success [Source: 361magazine.com]. He also acknowledged the unique legacy of legendary hosts like Baudo, Corrado, Mike, and Tortora, suggesting that while they are irreplaceable, De Martino possesses the potential to excel [Source: 361magazine.com].

De Martino’s Role and the Dopofestival Decision

Stefano De Martino recently returned to hosting “Your Business” after a brief interruption for the Opening Ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics [Source: msn.com]. Despite a shortened episode to accommodate a Sanremo Top special hosted by Carlo Conti, the show featured a successful contestant, Davide, who won €22,000 [Source: msn.com].

Carlo Conti has announced that Nicola Savino will host the Dopofestival, the post-festival talk show, rather than Stefano De Martino [Source: baritalianews.it]. This decision was made during a public event where Conti and De Martino exchanged playful banter about the possibility of De Martino hosting the show [Source: baritalianews.it].

Sanremo 2026: Looking Ahead

As preparations continue, all eyes are on Sanremo 2026 to see if it can both surprise and maintain its enduring appeal. The festival is scheduled to take place from February 24th to 28th, promising a celebration of Italian music [Source: 361magazine.com].