Florence, Italy – Actress Pilar Fogliati has confirmed her relationship with Fiorentina sporting director Fabio Paratici, adding a touch of off-field romance to the ongoing narrative of the Serie A football club. The confirmation came during Fogliati’s appearances as co-host of the second night of the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival, Italy’s most-watched television event. Even as navigating the spotlight of the festival, Fogliati also shared a heartfelt wish for her partner’s team, expressing hope for Fiorentina’s success in avoiding relegation this season.
Fogliati, known for her roles in popular Italian television series such as “Un passo dal cielo” (A Step from Heaven) and “Cuori” (Hearts), and her award-winning performances in film, confirmed the relationship during an interview with Il Messaggero. She described the relationship as a fortunate new chapter following the end of a long-term romance. “I ended a extremely long relationship about a year ago, but in the meantime, I fortunately started a story with a new, special person,” she stated, implicitly referring to Paratici. The couple had been the subject of speculation after being photographed together in Rome earlier in February, but this marks their first public acknowledgment of the relationship.
Sanremo Stage and a Hope for Fiorentina
Fogliati’s presence at the Sanremo Music Festival, alongside Carlo Conti, has drawn significant media attention, not only for her co-hosting duties but also for the blossoming romance. The festival, a cultural touchstone in Italy, provides a high-profile platform for Fogliati, and her connection to Paratici has added another layer of interest for audiences. The 2026 edition of Sanremo has been notable for its diverse lineup and focus on contemporary Italian culture, with Fogliati commenting on the festival’s ability to reflect the country’s trends, fashion, and the perspectives of young people. She believes the festival serves as a “magnifying glass” on Italy, offering a unique lens through which to view the nation.
Beyond the glamour of the festival, Fogliati’s support for Fiorentina has resonated with fans of the club. The actress expressed her sincere hope that the team will avoid relegation from Serie A, though she readily admitted to not being a football expert. “I really hope the Viola [Fiorentina’s nickname] are saved, but I’m not a massive football expert,” she said. This sentiment comes at a crucial time for Fiorentina, which is currently battling to maintain its position in the top tier of Italian football. The club has faced challenges this season, and the support of figures like Fogliati can provide a boost to morale.
Fabio Paratici: From the Pitch to Romance
Fabio Paratici is a well-known figure in Italian football, currently serving as the sporting director of Fiorentina. He previously held a prominent role at Juventus, where he was instrumental in building a team that dominated Serie A for nearly a decade. As reported by Gazzetta.it, Paratici’s career has been largely focused on the strategic and managerial aspects of the sport, a world quite different from the entertainment industry inhabited by Fogliati. His appointment at Fiorentina marked a new chapter in his career, and his relationship with Fogliati has brought him increased visibility outside of football circles.
The pairing of Fogliati and Paratici has captured the Italian public’s imagination, blending the worlds of entertainment and sport. The couple’s story has been widely covered in the Italian media, with publications like Cosmopolitan Italy highlighting their blossoming romance and Fogliati’s debut at Sanremo. Cosmopolitan’s coverage details the timeline of their relationship, from initial rumors to the official confirmation. The attention surrounding the couple underscores the Italian fascination with celebrity relationships and the intersection of different cultural spheres.
A Previous Connection: Football at Sanremo
This isn’t the first time football has intersected with the Sanremo Music Festival. Last year, Edoardo Bove, a player for Roma, brought a Fiorentina jersey onto the Ariston stage, a gesture that sparked conversation among fans and commentators. Fogliati’s connection to Fiorentina through Paratici continues this trend, demonstrating the enduring popularity of football in Italian culture and its ability to permeate even the most prominent entertainment events.
Carlo Conti, the host of the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival, is himself a known supporter of Fiorentina. Fogliati noted that Conti has not yet inquired about meeting Paratici, but the shared passion for the club suggests a potential connection between the two men. Conti previously expressed his prioritization of Fiorentina’s success over the festival’s ratings, stating, “Better a record-breaking Festival or the salvation of the Viola? Fiorentina getting back on its feet… All my life… What kind of question is that? Fiorentina, may it recover quickly, without making me suffer too much.”
Fogliati’s Rise and Continued Success
Pilar Fogliati has established herself as a prominent figure in Italian cinema and television. She gained recognition for her performances in films that earned her several Silver Ribbon awards, and she has starred in successful television series such as “Un passo dal cielo” and “Cuori.” Her versatility as an actress has allowed her to tackle a wide range of roles, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Her current role in “Cuori 3” continues to showcase her talent and solidify her position as one of Italy’s leading actresses.
Fogliati’s participation in Sanremo 2026 represents a new milestone in her career, expanding her reach beyond acting and into the realm of television hosting. Her ability to connect with audiences and her genuine enthusiasm for the festival have made her a popular co-host, and her personal life has added an extra layer of intrigue to her public persona. As she continues to navigate her career and her relationship with Fabio Paratici, Pilar Fogliati remains a captivating figure in the Italian entertainment landscape.
The next key date for both Fogliati and Paratici will be the continuation of the Serie A season for Fiorentina, with crucial matches ahead that will determine the club’s fate. Fans and observers will be watching closely to see if the team can secure its place in the top tier, and whether Fogliati’s support can provide a positive influence. The Sanremo Music Festival will continue through the week, offering further opportunities for Fogliati to shine on stage and engage with audiences.
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