It may have been the competing programming, the shift in the festival’s calendar, the sheer number of contestants – thirty, which some say was too many – or perhaps the songs themselves, whose quality can vary like the vintage of a wine. All the ingredients were there: a stellar professional like Laura Pausini, superstar guest Tiziano Ferro, the charming co-host Can Yaman, acts adored by younger audiences such as Nayt, Samurai Jay, and Sayf, alongside icons of Italian music like Patty Pravo. Pop, rock, rap, ballads, and a variety of rhythms filled the stage.
Yet something didn’t quite click during the first night of the 76th Sanremo Music Festival. The show drew an average of 9.6 million viewers, equating to a 58% share on Rai1, compared to 12.63 million viewers (65.3%) for the opening night last year.
The dip is clear, though it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions. Speaking at a press conference in Sanremo, festival host and artistic director Carlo Conti commented, “It’s difficult to compare one year with another. I’ve never been overly excited, but I do think it was a solid show that engaged nearly 10 million Italians.”
Conti added, “I was expecting a bit less, so I’m happy. It’s a very high number; the festival is doing well, and Laura Pausini was amazing last night.” Admitting that “there was room for improvement,” Conti remained upbeat, noting that the show would pick up pace in the second night. Only 15 contestants will perform, allowing more room for spectacle and variety.
The host will be joined by Pilar Fogliati, Achille Lauro, and Lillo Petrolo, ensuring a dynamic program. The evening will include meaningful segments on inclusion and emotional tributes: the Anffas choir from La Spezia, which supports people with intellectual disabilities, will perform; Achille Lauro will sing “Perdutamente” to honor the victims of Crans-Montana; and Olympic champions Francesca Lollobrigida and Lisa Vittozzi, along with Paralympians Giacomo Bertagnolli and Giuliana Turra, will also appear.
In addition, the four new artists will begin their competition. Was the first night a hit? Perhaps the second night will tell the full story.