Overview

• Rai and the Comune di Sanremo announced an agreement that keeps the Festival at the Ariston, with the 2026 edition scheduled for 24–28 February.
• The framework covers the 2026–2028 triennium with a possible extension, concluding months of negotiations after Rai emerged as the sole bidder.
• Finalization still requires institutional steps, including a Cda Rai vote expected on 18 September and subsequent ratification by the Sanremo Giunta.
• The tender terms require at least €6.5 million per year to the municipality, no less than 1% of advertising revenues, and allow termination if ratings drop 15 points versus the five-edition average.
• Talks focused on trademark and TV format rights after relocation threats, ending with a two-day session at Palazzo Bellevue, while a separate Just Entertainment challenge is slated for a TAR hearing on 17 October.