Aldo Cazzullo’s Critique of Sal Da Vinci’s Sanremo Win Sparks Debate

The victory of Sal Da Vinci at the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival continues to generate discussion, particularly following critical remarks made by Aldo Cazzullo, deputy director of Corriere della Sera. Cazzullo’s assessment of Da Vinci’s winning song, “Per sempre sì,” has ignited a social media firestorm and prompted a formal complaint alleging discriminatory stereotypes.

Cazzullo’s Criticism

Responding to a reader’s question about why he considered “Per sempre sì” the worst song in Sanremo’s history, Cazzullo drew comparisons that have been widely criticized. He suggested the song could serve as the soundtrack to a Camorra wedding or, at best, a parody by comedian Checco Zalone, known for satirical songs about Southern Italy. He contrasted Da Vinci’s song with earlier popular hits like “Nel blu dipinto di blu,” praising its reflection of a hopeful historical moment.

Cazzullo further commented on a perceived decline in standards, stating that contemporary Italy seems to be a place where “anyone can do anything,” extending the analogy to various positions of power, including the presidency.

Backlash and Legal Complaint

The critique has been met with significant backlash, particularly in Naples, where Da Vinci is scheduled to receive the city medal from Mayor Gaetano Manfredi on March 11th. Lawyer Angelo Pisani has filed a complaint on behalf of Neapolitan citizens and Da Vinci’s fans, arguing that Cazzullo’s comparison to the Camorra constitutes a “serious offensive and discriminatory stereotype” towards Naples and Southern Italian culture.

Pisani, founder of the anti-violence project 1523.it, has called on the Order of Journalists to investigate whether Cazzullo violated ethical rules with his comments, emphasizing the social responsibility of journalists to avoid fueling prejudice. The complaint seeks an evaluation of any instances of “media violence and territorial discrimination.”

Da Vinci’s Response

Sal Da Vinci responded to Cazzullo’s criticism at a celebration in Naples honoring his Sanremo win, stating, “We are in the wrong world.” Details of his full response were reported by Virgilio.it.

Social Media Reaction

The debate has extended to social media and radio stations in Naples, where Da Vinci’s victory was widely celebrated. Many users have expressed outrage at the comparison to the Camorra and have attributed Cazzullo’s comments to prejudice against Southern Italy, noting his Piedmontese origins. ANSA and Il Mattino have reported extensively on the social media reaction.

Key Takeaways

• Aldo Cazzullo’s criticism of Sal Da Vinci’s Sanremo-winning song has sparked a national debate.
• The comparison to the Camorra has been widely condemned as discriminatory.
• A legal complaint has been filed alleging offensive stereotypes.
• The controversy highlights ongoing tensions regarding regional stereotypes in Italy.