Overview
- Miss Italia removed Antonio Contaldo’s regional exclusivity for Campania after a 13-year-old girl appeared in a bikini and heels in the Mascotte category, which is restricted to 17-year-olds.
- In an official statement, patron Patrizia Mirigliani called the breach of age rules “inexcusable” and cited long-standing efforts to raise the minimum contestant age.
- Journalist Selvaggia Lucarelli elevated the issue in her “Vale Tutto” newsletter, sharing footage that quickly went viral on social media.
- Contaldo defended his decision by saying “La ragazzina voleva giocare e l’abbiamo fatta giocare,” sparking scrutiny over organiser accountability.
- The episode has intensified a national conversation on the sexualisation of minors and the role of families and social media, with no legal actions reported.