As the Italian entertainment landscape eagerly approaches the next edition of the Sanremo Festival in 2026, one of Italy’s most beloved artists, Laura Pausini, is making headlines not for her music but for her highly anticipated role as co-host. After decades of her illustrious singing career, Pausini is stepping onto the festival stage in an entirely new capacity, marking a significant milestone in her professional journey. Her participation as co-presenter brings a blend of personal reflection, artistic preparation, and a glimpse into her future projects, including her upcoming album “Io canto 2,” a collection of Italian classics and tributes set to debut on the very day she takes the stage in Sanremo. This article explores Pausini’s recent revelations, her motivations for accepting the hosting role, her artistic plans, and her views on social and political issues that she thoughtfully integrates into her work and public appearances.
Pausini’s Journey to Sanremo: From Cautious Beginnings to Enthusiastic Acceptance
For years, Laura Pausini had been hesitant about participating in the Sanremo Festival, Italy’s premier music event, especially in a hosting capacity. The singer confesses that until February of the previous year, she had no intention of accepting such a role. Her initial reservations stemmed from the intense emotional and professional pressure associated with the festival. It was only after a conversation with the well-known television host and director Carlo Conti, who personally reached out to her, that her stance began to shift.
“Conti called me, and when I met him, his calmness really struck me. I’m a very emotional person, and I need someone beside me who exudes tranquility—someone who doesn’t amplify my adrenaline,” Pausini revealed. She also recounts seeking advice from the legendary Pippo Baudo, one of Italy’s most iconic figures in television, who encouraged her to embrace the opportunity, telling her, “What are you waiting for? You’re ready.”
Eventually, Pausini accepted the offer, but she confesses that only her closest confidants, including her husband and Pippo Baudo, were privy to her decision until shortly before the official announcement. Her parents and daughter learned about her involvement just two weeks prior, reflecting her understandable desire to keep her focus and avoid leaks that could spoil the surprise.
Meaning Behind Her Decision and Personal Reflections
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Pausini’s acceptance is rooted in her desire to confront personal fears and grow artistically. She explains that her initial reluctance was linked to a long-standing discomfort with performing on stage in front of large audiences, which she attributes to her past experiences and emotional makeup.
“A psychologist once said that to overcome a fear, you need to face it,” she states. “Growing up, I constantly avoided these moments, but now I immerse myself in the theater—an environment that has always made me tremble—to try to conquer that anxiety. I’ve never excelled under pressure in competitions, so I don’t plan to return to such situations.”
This candid reflection reveals an artist committed to personal development, embracing challenges head-on even if they evoke vulnerability. Her decision to participate as a co-host signifies her willingness to step outside her comfort zone, blending her artistic mastery with a more public and conversational role.
The Sanremo Experience and Expectations
Pausini is approaching her Sanremo role with a mix of enthusiasm and thoughtful preparation. She shares that her participation will be guided primarily by her instincts, and she plans to focus on the core essence of the show: the music and the artists.
“Carlo told me that we will only have key points for the dialogues—not the full script—so I want to keep things natural. I don’t want to be introduced with a list of awards—I want the spotlight to be on the singers themselves,” she emphasizes. Her desire is to create an authentic atmosphere where the focus remains on the music and the performers’ stories.
Furthermore, on February 13, Pausini and Conti will participate in a significant event at the Quirinale Palace, where they will meet with President Sergio Mattarella. She describes him as “a very kind and warm person I feel close to; he shares views I agree with,” underscoring her respectful and sincere attitude toward her public duties.
Her Artistic Endeavors: “Io canto 2” and Artistic Inspirations
Coinciding with her Sanremo appearance, Laura Pausini is set to release her new album “Io canto 2” — a homage to Italian music featuring covers of Italian classics and selections representing artists with Italian roots. The album, scheduled for release on the day of the festival, reflects her deep-rooted love for Italian culture and her desire to celebrate its musical heritage.
On the cover, Pausini appears reminiscent of Giovanna d’Arco, embodying a warrior-like symbol of courage. She explains that she chose an image inspired by the iconic saint because she was seeking an emblem of female strength. “I was searching for an icon of bravery, and I googled her image. The sword in my concept is made of three microphones, symbolizing my voice and passion,” she says. Her aim was to project a new image of resilience and devotion to her craft, resonating strongly with her fans and critics alike.
Aside from her musical projects, Pausini hints at her future musical collaborations, including duets with artists like Annalisa and Achille Lauro, as well as a virtual duet with the legendary Lucio Dalla, a figure she holds in high esteem. Pausini recounts that Dalla was among the first well-known artists to write her an original song, “Paola e Patti,” which she couldn’t perform publicly due to rights issues—a nostalgic reflection on her early career days.
Personal Reflection: Facing Public Scrutiny and Social Issues
Throughout her career, Laura Pausini has been a vocal advocate for kindness, peace, and social justice, often weaving these themes into her music and public statements. She emphasizes her belief in the importance of compassion and understanding amid the often harsh environment of social media.
“An award elevates Italy, but in our country, there’s always a tendency to focus on a laureate’s flaws,” she observes, referencing the intense scrutiny faced by Italian athletes like tennis star Sinner. Pausini’s worldview is further shaped by her admiration for poet and mystic Rumi, whose words she quotes in album notes: “Beyond what is right and wrong, there is a vast field where we will meet.”
She champions the idea that most of the public discourse online is driven by negativity and urges her fans and followers to focus on the positive and meaningful aspects of life and art.
Thoughts on Political and Social Engagement
Pausini does not shy away from expressing her stances on complex political issues, including her opinions on international conflicts. She counters the stance of Levante, who announced she would boycott the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel participated, asserting that she would still attend—arguing that a country’s leader does not represent every individual citizen.
“I believe that an artist shouldn’t be penalized for their government’s actions,” she affirms. “If I were invited, I would go, because a political situation doesn’t diminish the value of art or the artist’s integrity.”
Additionally, she discusses her perspective on social activism and the importance of speaking out against violence and injustice. For example, Pausini expresses her disapproval of violence perpetrated against innocents and advocates for peace, echoing her commitment through her lyrics and public engagements.
Global Views and Reflections
Laura Pausini’s outlook extends beyond Italy, reflecting her appreciation for artistic freedom and social awareness. She highlights her admiration for artists like Bad Bunny, who uses his platform to criticize political violence, especially in the context of the U.S. and Latin America.
“In America, people are freer to express political opinions. Sometimes I do the same, choosing silence over commentary,” she notes. “But I believe in the importance of non-violence and respect for all human life, and I try to integrate these principles into my work—like in my song ‘Make music not war’.”
Her musical collaborations also reflect her diverse influences, with full duets planned alongside contemporary artists and homage to her musical roots, including a virtual duet with Lucio Dalla—a poignant link to her past and her continuing journey.
Anticipated Presence at the Olympics and Final Remarks
Looking to the future, Pausini hints that she might perform the Italian national anthem at the upcoming Olympic Games, although she remains discreet about details. “Maybe… I can’t reveal much, but I can say that I may have to sing in playback,” she hints with a smile.
As she prepares for the landmark events ahead, including her Sanremo hosting role, the release of her new album, and her possible Olympic appearance, Laura Pausini continues to blend her authentic artistry with her commitment to cultural dialogue, social activism, and personal growth. Her journey exemplifies a career built not only on musical talent but also on resilience, courage, and a profound connection to her roots and values.
