Sanremo 2026: Second Night Highlights and Emerging Favorites

The second night of the Sanremo 2026 festival unfolded with a mix of heartfelt tributes, co-host antics, and the continued competition among the 15 competing artists. The evening saw performances from established stars and rising talents, with a top five emerging as early contenders, according to voting results revealed at the close of the show.

A Night of Remembrance and Performance

A poignant moment of the evening was Achille Lauro’s tribute to the victims of the Crans-Montana tragedy with his song “Perdutamente.” Lauro, too serving as a co-host alongside Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini, delivered a moving performance accompanied by a choir and soprano Valentina Gargano. The performance resonated deeply, particularly as the song held significance for the mother of a victim of the tragedy, who had requested it be played at her son’s funeral.

The evening also included a tribute to the late Ornella Vanoni, with her niece, Camilla Ardenzi, performing Vanoni’s “Eternità” on stage. A recording of Vanoni’s original performance was then played, adding to the emotional impact.

New Proposals and Big Names Take the Stage

The evening began with performances from the New Proposals category, with Nicolò Filippucci and Angelica Bove securing their places in the finals. Following them, 15 established artists took to the stage, including Patty Pravo, LDA & Aka 7Even, Enrico Nigiotti, Tommaso Paradiso, Elettra Lamborghini, Ermal Meta, Levante, Bambole di Pezza, Chiello, J-Ax, Nayt, Fulminacci, Fedez and Masini, Dargen D’Amico, and Ditonellapiaga.

Co-Hosts Bring Laughter and Energy

Pilar Fogliati, Lillo, and Achille Lauro joined Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini as co-hosts for the evening. Lillo engaged the audience with a playful dance lesson, although Lauro balanced hosting duties with his performance.

Top Five Revealed

At the end of the night, the top five artists, as determined by a combination of televoting and the Radio Jury, were announced (without ranking): Tommaso Paradiso, Lda & Aka 7Even, Nayt, Fedez & Masini, and Ermal Meta. These artists will continue in the competition as the festival progresses.

Athletes and Special Guests

The evening also featured appearances by Italian athletes Francesca Lollobrigida, Lisa Vittozzi, Giacomo Bertagnolli, Andrea Ravelli, and Giuliana Turra, representing the Milano Cortina Olympics and Paralympics. Fausto Leali received a lifetime achievement award, marking sixty years in music.

The ANFFAS choir also performed a rendition of “Si può dare di più,” joined by Laura Pausini.