Sanremo 2026: Carlo Conti ready to reclaim the Ariston

Artistic Direction: The Return of the "Captain" Following Amadeus’s long and successful cycle, Carlo Conti returns to the helm as host and Artistic Director. His mission is clear: to bring the Festival back to a dimension of "sober elegance" without sacrificing the record-breaking numbers of recent years. To achieve this, he has chosen an exceptional traveling companion: Laura Pausini, who will serve as a permanent co-host for all five nights, returning to the stage that launched her career in 1993.

The Big Artists: 30 Contestants in the Race Conti has raised the stakes by increasing the number of "Campioni" (Big Artists) to 30. Among the most anticipated names: • Fedez & Marco Masini: An unprecedented pairing that promises to be explosive. • Patty Pravo: The veteran returning to pay homage to the great tradition of Italian song. • Fulminacci, Chiello, and Ditonellapiaga: Representing the indie and contemporary scene. • Arisa, Francesco Renga, and Ermal Meta: Major returns from past winners.

Co-hosts and Guests: An International Ariston The Ariston stage will speak many languages this year. Here is the nightly breakdown: • Opening Night (24/02): Alongside Conti and Pausini, Turkish actor Can Yaman will appear. Musical super guest: Tiziano Ferro. • Second Night (25/02): Comedy takes center stage with Lillo, joined by the versatility of Achille Lauro and Pilar Fogliati. • Third Night (26/02): Supermodel Irina Shayk joins the hosts. High expectations for the international duo: Eros Ramazzotti and Alicia Keys for a world premiere performance. • Fourth Night (Covers): The duets night will feature collaborations between the contestants and external guests (such as Francesca Fagnani with Fulminacci or The Kolors with Raf).

Trivia and New Logistics • Tribute to Pippo Baudo: Carlo Conti announced that the entire edition will be dedicated to "Pippo Nazionale," with references starting right from the opening credits. • The Set Design: Designed by Riccardo Bocchini, it is based on the concept of "spatial expansion," featuring a technological setup never before seen at the Ariston. • The "Fuori Festival": Max Pezzali will be the permanent guest broadcasting from the Costa Toscana cruise ship, while Piazza Colombo will host concerts by Gaia, Bresh, and Pooh (celebrating 60 years of their career).

Sanremo 2026 looks to blend the reassuring professionalism of Carlo Conti with the international spirit of Laura Pausini, promising five nights of music that will keep Italy—and the world—glued to the screen.