Sanremo 2026: A Festival Dedicated to Pippo Baudo

The 76th edition of the Sanremo Music Festival is set to begin on February 24th and run through February 28th, promising five evenings of competition among 30 participating songs. This year’s festival is particularly poignant, as it will be the last led by Carlo Conti and is dedicated to the memory of television icon Pippo Baudo.

A Touching Tribute to a Legend

Carlo Conti, visibly moved during the press conference on February 23rd, announced his intention to honor Pippo Baudo throughout the festival. He revealed he had even placed a nameplate on Baudo’s former dressing room as a personal tribute. “Pippo is the lighthouse,” Conti stated, emphasizing Baudo’s profound influence on Italian television and the Sanremo Festival itself. He described the festival as “Baudian,” highlighting the deep connection and respect he holds for the late presenter. Vanity Fair Italia

Laura Pausini Joins Conti as Co-Host

Joining Carlo Conti as co-host is Laura Pausini, who shared a touching anecdote about seeking Baudo’s advice before accepting the role. Pausini recounted a phone call with Baudo, where he encouraged her to embrace the opportunity, saying, “You’ve been waiting for this, Laura. You’re ready.” She expressed her emotional connection to Sanremo, recalling her first appearance in 1993 and the significance of being awarded by Baudo. Repubblica, RaiNews

Festival Highlights and Guests

The festival will feature a diverse lineup of co-hosts throughout the week, including Can Yaman, Achille Lauro, Pilar Fogliati, Bianca Balti, Irina Shayk, and Giorgia Cardinaletti. Olympic and Paralympic athletes, including Arianna Fontana, Francesca Lollobrigida, Lisa Vittozzi, Giacomo Bertagnolli, Andrea Ravelli, and Giuliana Turra, are also scheduled to appear on Wednesday. RaiNews

Addressing Recent Controversies

Conti also addressed recent controversies surrounding Andrea Pucci, though details were not elaborated upon. He also dismissed rumors of a visit from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, stating she is free to attend if she purchases a ticket, and emphasized his independence from political influence. Vanity Fair Italia, Repubblica, RaiNews

Baudos Family to Attend

Adding to the emotional weight of the festival, Pippo Baudo’s children, Tiziana and Alessandro, will be in the audience on opening night, along with Baudo’s longtime assistant, Dina Minna. An exhibition dedicated to Baudo will also be inaugurated at the Forte Santa Tecla in Sanremo. RaiNews

Prime Minister Meloni Denies Attendance

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni addressed rumors of her attendance via social media, stating that reports of her participation were “totally invented news.” She affirmed her commitment to her duties and wished the festival success. RaiNews