The 75th edition of the Festival di Sanremo took place from February 11 to 15, 2025, at the Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, Italy. This celebrated music festival, known for launching the careers of numerous Italian artists, was hosted by Carlo Conti, who returned to the role after a hiatus since 2017. Conti’s appointment was announced in May 2024, marking a new chapter for the festival as he took on both hosting and artistic direction responsibilities for the 2025 and 2026 editions. His return brought a sense of continuity and familiarity to the event, which had seen various hosts in recent years.
Co-Hosts and Special Guests
Each evening of the festival featured a unique lineup of co-hosts, adding variety and flair to the proceedings. Here’s a breakdown of the co-hosts for each night
- Night 1 (February 11)Carlo Conti hosted solo, setting the tone for the festival’s opening night.
- Night 2 (February 12)Model Bianca Balti, singer and television personality Cristiano Malgioglio, and actor Nino Frassica joined Conti on stage.
- Night 3 (February 13)Actress Miriam Leone, singer Elettra Lamborghini, and comedian Katia Follesa co-hosted with Conti.
- Night 4 (February 14)Singer Mahmood, a previous Sanremo winner, and comedian Geppi Cucciari were the co-hosts.
- Night 5 (Finale, February 15)Television presenter Alessia Marcuzzi and television host Alessandro Cattelan joined Conti for the grand finale.
In addition to the main festival, the PrimaFestival, a pre-show segment, was hosted by Bianca Guaccero, Gabriele Corsi, and Mariasole Pollio. Their role was to provide insights and commentary leading up to the main event each night. The DopoFestival, an after-show discussion, was hosted by Alessandro Cattelan, offering viewers a chance to delve deeper into the performances and highlights of the evening.
Festival Highlights and Winners
The 2025 edition of Sanremo featured 33 artists competing in two main categories Campioni (Established Artists) and Nuove Proposte (New Proposals). The competition was fierce, with each artist bringing their unique style and talent to the stage.
The winner of the Campioni category was Olly with the song Balorda Nostalgia, a track that resonated with both the audience and critics. Olly’s victory was particularly notable as he had previously participated in the festival and finished in 24th place, making his comeback a remarkable success.
In the Nuove Proposte category, Settembre clinched the top spot with the song Vertebre, marking a significant achievement in their emerging career. The festival’s format allowed all 33 artists to perform without eliminations, culminating in a grand finale where every participant showcased their talents.
Following Olly’s decision not to represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, the opportunity was extended to Lucio Corsi, who finished second in the Campioni category with Volevo essere un duro. Corsi went on to represent Italy at Eurovision, where he secured a commendable fifth place in the competition held in Basel, Switzerland.
Production and Direction
The festival’s production was overseen by director Maurizio Pagnussat, with scenography designed by Riccardo Bocchini. The musical direction was led by Pinuccio Pirazzoli, ensuring a cohesive and high-quality auditory experience. The writing team, including Carlo Conti, Mario D’Amico, Emanuele Giovannini, and others, contributed to the festival’s engaging content and smooth flow.
RAI, Italy’s national public broadcasting company, managed the event’s broadcasting, with the festival being aired on Rai 1 and available for streaming on RaiPlay. The extensive coverage allowed fans both in Italy and abroad to enjoy the performances and festivities.
Audience Reception and Cultural Impact
The 2025 Sanremo Festival achieved impressive viewership, with the opening night attracting over 12 million viewers, reflecting the festival’s enduring popularity and cultural significance. The event not only showcased musical talents but also served as a platform for discussing contemporary issues, with performances and segments that resonated with a wide audience.
Carlo Conti’s return as host was met with positive reception, praised for his professionalism and ability to connect with both the audience and participants. His leadership brought a sense of tradition and stability to the festival, which had undergone various changes in recent years.
The diverse lineup of co-hosts added depth and variety to the festival, with each bringing their unique personalities and expertise. The inclusion of both established and emerging artists as co-hosts highlighted the festival’s commitment to celebrating a broad spectrum of talent.
Looking Ahead
With Carlo Conti confirmed as the host and artistic director for both the 2025 and 2026 editions, the Sanremo Festival is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in showcasing Italian music and culture. The 2025 edition’s success sets a high standard for future festivals, promising even more memorable performances and moments.
As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of Italian entertainment, reflecting the nation’s rich musical heritage and its dynamic contemporary scene. The 2025 edition has once again proven that Sanremo is not just a music festival but a celebration of Italian culture, talent, and creativity.