Ghali's performance at the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics has sparked controversy, particularly among his supporters. They expressed disappointment that the broadcast largely overlooked him during his performance, failing to provide any close-ups, which they felt undermined the significance of his presence. The decision to focus on a broader view that included multiple artists, such as a children's choir, was seen as a slight against Ghali, with some supporters alleging censorship.

The controversy escalated further after it was noted that the event's host did not mention Ghali by name during the performance, leading to accusations of censorship once again. This response comes after earlier concerns about whether Ghali would stick to the script during the performance. His selection was initially met with speculation regarding his spontaneity, suggesting a potential mishap by going off-script, which could disrupt the careful planning of the evening.

Ultimately, this incident reflects larger issues regarding representation in major events and the media's role in shaping public perception of artists. Critics argue that failing to highlight performers like Ghali diminishes their contributions and overlooks the diverse aspects of contemporary Italian culture, leading to calls for more inclusive coverage in future events.