Sal Da Vinci Wins Sanremo 2026 & Eurovision Bound | News & Updates

Sal Da Vinci has claimed victory at the 76th edition of the Festival della Canzone Italiana, Sanremo 2026, with his song “Per sempre sì.” But the win wasn’t a complete surprise to everyone. Antonio Ricci, the creator of the Italian satirical news program “Striscia la Notizia,” reportedly predicted Da Vinci’s success a month prior to the finale, a premonition that’s now making headlines.

The victory, announced earlier today, initially seemed unexpected to many. Early frontrunners included Serena Brancale and the duo of Fedez and Marco Masini. However, as the festival progressed, Da Vinci’s track, “Per sempre sì,” gained significant momentum, becoming ubiquitous in the city of Sanremo. While the song’s popularity was evident, its ultimate triumph wasn’t a foregone conclusion – until Ricci’s prediction surfaced.

Ricci’s Prediction Gains Traction

Just hours before the final performance, bookmakers began to shift their odds, increasingly favoring Da Vinci as the potential winner. This shift aligned with Ricci’s earlier assessment, which he apparently shared based on a “feeling” or other unspecified reasons. “Striscia la Notizia” has a long history of covering Sanremo, often incorporating themed sets and conducting interviews with participants, and frequently offering predictions that have proven accurate in the past. Details of Ricci’s prediction are available on Striscia la Notizia’s website.

A Career Resurgence for Sal Da Vinci

Sal Da Vinci’s win marks a significant moment in his career. While details about his early life and musical beginnings are currently limited in available reporting, the festival win is already generating substantial media attention. His wife, Paola Pugliese, recently shared a story of financial hardship the couple faced before Da Vinci’s success, highlighting the emotional weight of this victory. La Gazzetta dello Sport published an interview with Pugliese detailing their struggles.

Sanremo 2026: Ratings and Eurovision Implications

Despite Da Vinci’s win, overall viewership for Sanremo 2026 experienced a slight decline, according to reports from L’Eco di Bergamo. However, the excitement surrounding Da Vinci’s victory is expected to carry over to the Eurovision Song Contest, where he will now represent Italy. The competition is scheduled to take place later this year, and anticipation is building to see how Da Vinci’s “Per sempre sì” will fare on the international stage.

The Broader Italian Music Landscape

Da Vinci’s win comes at a time of ongoing discussion about the state of Italian music. As la Repubblica notes, the success of Sanremo often leads to a surge in opportunities for artists, including television appearances and concert bookings. However, the article also raises questions about the long-term health and direction of the Italian music industry, and whether the festival’s spotlight translates into sustained growth for emerging talent.

What’s Next for Sal Da Vinci?

Following his Sanremo triumph, Da Vinci is now preparing for his performance at the Eurovision Song Contest. The logistical details of his participation, including rehearsals and travel arrangements, are currently being finalized. The focus will be on adapting “Per sempre sì” for the larger Eurovision stage and maximizing its impact on an international audience. Beyond Eurovision, Da Vinci is likely to embark on a promotional tour and potentially release a new album, capitalizing on the momentum generated by his Sanremo win. The coming months will be crucial in solidifying his position as a leading figure in Italian music.