The third evening of the Sanremo festival in Italy featured co-hosts Ubaldo Pantani and model Irina Shayk alongside Carlo Conti. The event drew 9.5 million viewers, reflecting an increase in viewer share to 60.6%, although this was one million fewer viewers than the 2025 festival. The 2025 performance had 10.7 million viewers with a share of 59.8%. While the number of viewers has decreased compared to 2025, the improved share indicates a heightened engagement among those watching.

Traditionally considered a cultural hallmark in Italian entertainment, the Sanremo festival continues to adapt and evolve, showcasing different hosting styles and guest appearances. The 2025 festival, remembered for its significant guest performances including Duran Duran, highlighted a peak in viewership that this year's event did not reach despite a commendable increase in share. Notably, the evening represented the best share figures recorded since 1990, showing that the festival remains a significant draw for audiences, reflecting its longstanding popularity.

The festival's ratings may suggest a shifting landscape in viewer habits, emphasizing that while the overall number of viewers has decreased, those who are tuning in are more engaged than ever. This phenomenon could inspire future adaptations to attract wider audiences while retaining viewer fidelity, ensuring that Sanremo remains a staple in the Italian television calendar.