Emis Killa’s Sanremo Shock Exit: The Festival’s First Major Scandal

Sanremo 2025 has already made headlines—and not for the right reasons. Rapper Emis Killa, who was set to make his highly anticipated debut at Italy’s most prestigious music festival, has announced his withdrawal. In a brief but striking social media post, he wrote:

«After 15 years in the industry, I was happy to take on my first Sanremo. I thank Carlo Conti for the opportunity, but I’d rather step back and not participate.»

The announcement leaves the festival with 29 competing artists, as RAI has confirmed that there will be no replacement for Killa. However, the bigger question remains: why did he really quit?

The Shadow of a Criminal Investigation

His departure comes amid reports from Il Corriere della Sera that link the rapper—real name Emiliano Rudolf Giambelli—to an ongoing investigation by Milan’s anti-mafia unit. The case, dubbed Doppia Curva, focuses on illegal activities involving hardcore football ultras, particularly those connected to Inter and AC Milan.

The 35-year-old artist is reportedly under investigation for alleged association with a criminal network. While he has acknowledged receiving a three-year stadium ban (Daspo), further reports suggest he was identified at the scene of a violent incident involving a steward. Investigators have also linked him to well-known figures in the ultra scene, including the Lucci brothers and Fabiano Capuzzo, with whom he co-owns a barbershop in Monza. Even more controversially, social media photos show him alongside individuals allegedly tied to organized crime, including Alfonso Cuturello and Antonio Favasuli.

Sanremo Remains Silent, Fans Divided

Despite the growing controversy, the Sanremo organizers have refrained from making any statements beyond confirming Killa’s exit. Artistic director Carlo Conti has not addressed whether the decision came from the rapper himself, or whether external pressures played a role.

On social media, opinions are split. Some fans argue that he is being unfairly targeted and that withdrawing was the best way to avoid unnecessary drama. Others see it as a necessary move to protect the festival’s integrity.

One thing is certain: this year’s Sanremo has already found its first scandal, and the music hasn’t even started.

Source: Corriere della sera