Overview
- Salvini arrived at the Lega Giovani event after treatment for renal colic, told supporters he felt better, and is slated to close the main rally on Sunday.
- Vannacci addressed the youth gathering wearing a Charlie Kirk “Freedom” shirt, dismissed talk of seeking the party leadership, urged a negotiated peace on Ukraine, and doubled down on hard‑line immigration views.
- Organizers emphasized a free‑speech theme under the slogan “Liberi e forti,” the youth event held a minute of silence for Kirk, and authorities increased security with hundreds of supporters expected by roughly 180–200 buses.
- International allies are scheduled for Sunday’s stage, including Jordan Bardella of Rassemblement National, Vox leader Santiago Abascal, and Brazilian senator Flávio Bolsonaro.
- Regional candidacies remain unresolved as Salvini has deferred announcements until after Pontida, with the “Carta della Lombardia” signature drive spotlighting the party’s identity push.