The first night of the Sanremo Music Festival, held on February 24, attracted 9.6 million viewers, which equates to a 58% share, marking a drop of three million viewers compared to the previous year's premiere. This year's event featured host Laura Pausini and performances from notable guests like Tiziano Ferro and Can Yaman. The decrease in viewership is particularly notable compared to last year's debut, which had an audience of 12.6 million and a share of 65.3% as it marked a transition from previous host Amadeus, bringing in a wider audience over traditional broadcasting platforms.

Sanremo has long been a significant event in Italian television, drawing large audiences with its mix of music, celebrity appearances, and cultural references. This year's opening included tributes to Italian artists Pippo Baudo and Peppe Vessicchio, as well as a special moment honoring 80 years of the Republic with Kabir Bedi and a centenarian guest, adding layers of nostalgia and cultural depth to the event. However, the ratings drop could raise concerns about the festival's ability to maintain its relevancy in an era of changing media consumption habits, exacerbated by the rise of digital platforms.

Carlo Conti, the festival's director, expressed a resilient outlook despite the drop in numbers. He remarked that he remains calm whether ratings improve or decline, indicating that while viewer numbers are critical, they should not solely dictate the festival's perceived success. The declining figures may prompt organizers to reassess their strategies to engage audiences, ensuring that the Sanremo Music Festival continues to resonate with viewers amidst evolving entertainment landscapes.