Italy’s Sanremo Music Festival is at the center of a controversy after singer-songwriter Levante announced she would refuse to represent Italy at Eurovision 2026 if she wins, due to Israel’s inclusion in the contest. Levante cited the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza as her reason for the boycott. This marks the first time a Sanremo contestant has publicly declined the Eurovision opportunity on ethical grounds before the competition begins.
The controversy follows the European Broadcasting Union’s approval of Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, despite calls for boycotts from several countries. Italy’s state broadcaster RAI, which supports Israel’s involvement, is reportedly surveying Sanremo contestants to prepare for potential refusals. Meanwhile, some RAI board members have proposed inviting a Palestinian artist as a non-competitive guest to promote cultural dialogue.
**Why this matters**
Sanremo’s winner traditionally represents Italy at Eurovision, making Levante’s pledge a significant challenge for the festival and RAI. The situation highlights the intersection of music, politics, and international conflict, as countries and artists navigate the implications of Israel’s participation amid the Gaza crisis. The outcome may influence Italy’s approach to Eurovision and set a precedent for how cultural events respond to geopolitical tensions.
Source: News Source