Overview
- Reports say a heated exchange among finalists on Thursday, June 18, included remarks attributed to Michele Mari about the late Michela Murgia that prompted the controversy.
- The Fondazione Goffredo e Maria Bellonci issued a statement condemning any denigratory language and publicly distanced itself from the phrases attributed to Mari.
- Mari denied speaking about Murgia’s appearance, called the reports "uncontrolled rumors," said he clarified the matter with finalist Teresa Ciabatti, and apologized to her.
- The foundation said the Premio Strega rules do not allow the organization to exclude a work or let an author unilaterally withdraw, so Mari remains listed among the six finalists.
- With formal exclusion blocked by the rules, media coverage and public debate focus on reputational consequences for Mari, the role of the 460 Amici della Domenica in choosing the winner, and how the 80th edition will move forward.