Laura Pausini Reflects on Sanremo and the Legacy of Pippo Baudo

Sanremo 2026 is unfolding with a poignant undercurrent of remembrance, and anticipation. This year’s festival marks Carlo Conti’s final time at the helm, and the first without the presence of the beloved Pippo Baudo, a true icon of Italian television. Laura Pausini, a prominent figure in this year’s event, shared her emotional connection to Baudo and her excitement about collaborating with Conti.

A Call to the Master

Pausini revealed that after receiving the invitation from Carlo Conti to co-host Sanremo, the first person she contacted was Pippo Baudo. “He told me I was ready and not to think about it,” Pausini recounted, highlighting the profound influence Baudo has had on her career. [Source: Instagram] Baudo, who hosted the Sanremo Music Festival a record 13 times, played a crucial role in launching Pausini’s career, a debt she clearly acknowledges.

Conti’s Tribute and Festival Themes

Carlo Conti is dedicating this year’s festival to Baudo, emphasizing his enduring impact on Italian television and the Sanremo festival itself. Conti expressed his emotion at leading the festival for the first time without Baudo, stating his intention to honor the late host throughout the event. [Source: YouTube]

Beyond the tribute to Baudo, Conti highlighted the musical diversity of the festival, featuring artists like Tiziano Ferro, Andrea Bocelli, Eros Ramazzotti, and Pausini, who bring Italian music to a global audience. He also noted the festival’s commitment to spontaneity and lightness, qualities he believes Pausini embodies. [Source: Facebook]

Sanremo and Beyond: Olympics and Italian Culture

This year’s Sanremo will also feature a segment dedicated to the Olympics and Paralympics, with appearances from Italian athletes including Arianna Fontana, Francesca Lollobrigida, Lisa Vittozzi, Giacomo Bertagnolli, and Giuliana Turra. Conti emphasized the cultural significance of the festival, noting a recent meeting with President Mattarella, who underscored the importance of pop music and Sanremo as integral parts of Italian culture.

Economic Impact and Media Attention

The 2026 Sanremo Festival is projected to have an overall economic impact of 252 million euros, according to an analysis by Ernst & Young. [Source: Facebook] Williams Di Liberatore, Prime Time entertainment director for Rai Pubblicità, noted that Sanremo generates more discussion than even the Super Bowl, demonstrating its widespread appeal and cultural relevance.

Remembering Those Lost

The festival also took a moment to remember colleagues Giovanni Paoli, Alfredo Saitto, and Pietro Bevilacqua, who contributed to the Sanremo press room.

Pippo Baudo’s Legacy

Pippo Baudo, often referred to as the “King of Television” in Italy, passed away in August 2025. [Source: The New York Times] His career spanned decades, and he was a mentor to countless artists, including Laura Pausini. His absence is deeply felt at this year’s Sanremo, but his legacy continues to inspire.