by InTrieste
Italian singer Sal Da Vinci won the 2026 edition of Italy’s Sanremo Music Festival on Saturday night, claiming victory with the ballad “Per sempre sì” at the Teatro Ariston.
The 56-year-old singer-songwriter from Naples secured the title at the conclusion of the festival’s five-night run, marking its 76th edition. His song, a melodic ode often described as a wedding anthem, had gained traction on digital platforms earlier in the week. The win represents a return to the Ariston stage nearly two decades after his third-place finish in 2009.
As the festival’s winner, Da Vinci receives the first option to represent Italy at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled to take place in Vienna in May.
The final outcome was determined through a weighted voting system that combined public televoting, a radio jury and a press jury. After the initial rounds, the top five artists advanced to a “Superfinal,” where Da Vinci prevailed over the runner-up, Sayf, and the third-place finisher, Ditonellapiaga.
Arisa placed fourth, while the duo Fedez & Masini finished fifth. Fedez and Masini also received the Sergio Bardotti Award for Best Lyrics. The Mia Martini Critics’ Award was presented to Fulminacci for his song “Stupida sfortuna.”
The festival was hosted by television presenter Carlo Conti alongside singer Laura Pausini, who led this year’s edition.
The evening included a guest performance by tenor Andrea Bocelli, who made a dramatic entrance on horseback, and a tribute marking the 60-year career of the pop-rock group I Pooh.
Organizers also announced that next year’s festival will be hosted by Stefano De Martino, following a two-year tenure by Conti.
