Sanremo 2026: Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini Lead the 76th Italian Song Festival
The 76th Sanremo Music Festival, officially the 76º Festival della canzone italiana, is underway at the Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, Italy. The festival, which began on February 24th and will conclude on February 28th, 2026, is being co-hosted by Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini. Conti also serves as the artistic director for the competition [1].
Format and Sections
This year’s festival features two main sections: the Considerable Artists section with 30 entries and the Newcomers’ section with 4 entries [1]. The winner of Sanremo will have the opportunity to represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 [1].
The judging system incorporates televoting, along with votes from a press jury and a radio jury [1].
Hosts and Presenters
Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini are the primary hosts for the entire festival. Additional presenters will join them throughout the week, including Can Yaman (for the first night of the Big Artists section), Achille Lauro, Lillo and Pilar Fogliati (for the second night of the Big Artists section), Irina Shayk (for the third night of the Big Artists section), Bianca Balti (for the fourth night of the Big Artists section), Giorgia Cardinaletti (for the fifth night of the Big Artists section), and Gianluca Gazzoli (for the Newcomers’ section) [1].
What to Expect
Sanremo is more than just a music competition. it’s a cultural event that blends music, drama, and spectacle [2]. The festival has a long history, predating Eurovision, and began in 1951 as a celebration of Italian music and culture [2].
Neapolitan Representation
This year’s festival will showcase Neapolitan culture, with artists Luchè and Sal da Vinci representing Naples [2].
Schedule:
- Semi-final 1: February 24, 2026
- Semi-final 2: February 25, 2026
- Semi-final 3: February 26, 2026
- Semi-final 4: February 27, 2026
- Final: February 28, 2026