Laura Pausini to Headline Sanremo 2026: A Return to Her Roots & a Festival Reimagined – Breaking News
Rome, Italy – In a stunning announcement broadcast live on Italian television, global superstar Laura Pausini will co-host all five evenings of the Sanremo Music Festival 2026, marking a full-circle moment for the artist who launched her career on the very same stage. The news, delivered via Tg1’s 8pm broadcast, confirms Pausini’s prominent role alongside returning host Carlo Conti and a unique addition: Max Pezzali, who will be the sole musical act performing nightly from a dedicated “stage on the sea.” This is a major breaking news development for fans of Italian music and a significant boost for the festival’s profile.
A Homecoming for a Global Icon
“I thank Laura for immediately accepting my invitation with enthusiasm,” Conti stated, emphasizing the excitement surrounding Pausini’s participation. “It is a great honor and a joy to share the running of the festival with such a strong, charismatic and fun artist and woman like Laura.” Pausini herself expressed deep emotion, describing Sanremo as “my destination. My smile. My temptation. My fear.” Her connection to the festival runs deep; she first gained national recognition at Sanremo in 1993, and this return represents a powerful acknowledgement of her journey.
Pausini’s international success is undeniable. With over 75 million records sold worldwide and more than 6 billion streams, she’s a true global phenomenon. Her accolades include a Grammy Award, four Latin Grammy Awards, and a 2023 “Person of the Year” award from the Latin Recording Academy – a first for a non-Spanish speaking artist. She’s also received nominations for a Golden Globe, Oscar, and Emmy, and recently co-hosted the Eurovision Song Contest 2022. This breadth of experience will undoubtedly enrich the Sanremo experience.
Sanremo: More Than Just a Music Festival – A Cultural Touchstone
The Sanremo Music Festival isn’t simply a competition; it’s a cornerstone of Italian culture. First held in 1951, it has consistently reflected the nation’s evolving musical tastes and social landscape. For decades, it has served as a launchpad for Italian artists, and a barometer of national sentiment. Winning Sanremo often translates to representing Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest, further amplifying its international impact. Understanding this historical context is crucial to appreciating the significance of Pausini’s involvement.
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Max Pezzali: A New Dimension to the Sanremo Stage
Adding another layer of intrigue, Carlo Conti revealed that Max Pezzali will be a permanent fixture on a specially constructed stage extending into the sea. “Do you know that ship that drops anchor in front of Sanremo?” Conti explained. “Usually different artists alternated on that stage, this year there will be a single big name who will party every evening with his music, energy, joy: it’s Max Pezzali.” This innovative approach promises a more immersive and celebratory atmosphere, transforming the festival into a continuous party centered around Pezzali’s extensive catalog.
This move signals a potential shift in the festival’s format, blending the traditional competition with a more concert-like experience. It’s a bold strategy designed to attract a wider audience and generate even more buzz around the event. For Google News indexing, the inclusion of both established stars and a novel stage concept provides a compelling narrative.
Pausini expressed her excitement, admitting to a mix of exhilaration and nervousness. “You never forget the first times,” she said, “and like when you have your first kiss I feel excited.” She credited Conti with helping her overcome her initial apprehension about taking on the role of host, emphasizing the trust and respect she has for him.
The combination of Pausini’s star power, Conti’s experience, and Pezzali’s energetic performances sets the stage for a Sanremo 2026 that promises to be both a celebration of Italian music and a captivating cultural event. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage and exclusive insights as the festival approaches. We’ll be following all the latest developments, artist announcements, and behind-the-scenes stories to bring you the most comprehensive coverage available.
