The Sanremo Festival is much more than a television show; it is a significant cultural event in Italy where viewers at home can actively engage and influence the outcome. In the 2026 edition, the voting mechanism continues to emphasize the vital role of the audience, allowing them to cast their preferences through televoting, which can be done via landline or mobile phones. This year after year participation becomes crucial as it can lead to surprises and shifts in rankings, highlighting the power of public consensus in shaping the final results of the competition.

In addition to the televote, the final winners will be determined by three distinct juries, including the Press Jury, the Radio Jury, and the public vote through televoting. Together, these groups decide not only the main winners of the Big category but also those in the “New Proposals” category. This layered approach to decision-making reflects the festival's commitment to inclusivity and diverse opinion in its results.

The voting process unfolds nightly, starting with all 30 Big artists performing on the first night, with voting restricted to the Press Jury. As the festival progresses, the dynamics of the voting can shift, showcasing the varying influence different juries and the public hold over the performances at the festival. These mechanisms ensure that the competition remains dynamic and unpredictable, drawing increased viewer engagement and excitement around the event, and reinforcing its place as a staple in Italian entertainment culture.