Pete Parkkonen and Linda Lampenius have secured a record-breaking UMK victory with 'Liekinheitin,' but their journey to Vienna 2026 is far from simple. As Finland eyes its second Eurovision trophy, Ben Robertson reports from Tampere on the political pressures, boycotts, and the difficult balancing act facing the artists.

Dude Points examines the power and responsibility placed on Sanremo's Artistic Director. With complete control over the songs, the acts and the presentation, their decisions echo across Italy and the world. Were the right choices made in 2026?

UMK has evolved into an "artist bootcamp" where Finnish technical precision meets a rebellious, no-rules creative spirit. Ben Robertson writes how this National Final puts in an effort like no other to produce each three-minute performance and delivering quality, rather than quantity.

Ilaria Pagano compares the two approaches of Sanremo's most recent Artistic Directors, Amadeus and Carlo Conti.

Most of the men in Sanremo are dealing with unrequited love, unhealthy relationships, or the aftermath of a breakup. But amidst all the angst, there are two singers who are providing hope to audiences. With both their canzone and their real-life relationships, these men are saying yes now and yes forever to a successful long-term relationship.