RAI, the Italian national broadcaster, has once again thrown its hat into the Eurovision ring for 2025, confirming their participation in Switzerland’s forthcoming spectacle. And true to form, they’re dragging the whole of Italy along for the ride via their beloved, if somewhat over-the-top, Festival di Sanremo. With TV presenter Carlo Conti at the helm, this year promises to be a rollercoaster of melodrama, ballads, and perhaps a few eyebrow-raising moments. Because what would Sanremo be without a touch of chaos?
RAI has assured Eurofestivales that Italy’s Eurovision contender will be handpicked from the crème de la crème of the Festival di Sanremo 2025, set to run from February 4 to 8. Although, in true Italian fashion, whether the winner will actually represent Italy at Eurovision is yet to be set in stone. Because, of course, who doesn’t love a bit of suspense?
Last year’s representative, Angelina Mango, took Italy to a respectable 7th place with her song “La noia,” scoring 268 points. Not bad, but let’s be honest—Italy’s Eurovision history is a bit of a mixed bag.
A Brief History of Italy in Eurovision: The Highs, Lows, and Everything In Between
Italy’s relationship with Eurovision can be likened to a tempestuous love affair—full of passion, drama, and the occasional sulk. They first entered the contest in 1956 and quickly made a mark, winning in 1964 with Gigliola Cinquetti’s “Non ho l’età.” Fast-forward to 1990, and Toto Cutugno’s “Insieme: 1992” clinched another victory.
Then came the wilderness years. Italy, perhaps feeling too sophisticated for the Eurovision stage, took a hiatus from 1998 to 2010. Their grand return in 2011, however, was nothing short of spectacular. Raphael Gualazzi’s «Madness of Love» secured second place, reminding Europe that Italy still had the musical chops.
Since then, Italy has been a consistent powerhouse, with highlights including Il Volo’s operatic pop in 2015, which bagged third place, and Måneskin’s rock anthem «Zitti e buoni,» which won the contest in 2021, bringing Eurovision to Italy in 2022.
Despite occasional controversies and the odd disappointing result, Italy’s flair for combining traditional Italian charm with contemporary music trends keeps them a fan favourite. And with the ever-unpredictable Festival di Sanremo as their selection method, Italy never fails to add a dash of Italian drama to the Eurovision mix.
So, as we brace ourselves for the 2025 edition of the Festival di Sanremo, one thing is clear: whether Italy ends up winning Eurovision or just providing us with memorable moments and fabulous fashion, it’s going to be an unmissable ride.