Recommendations of the Editorial team
The curling cracks are already pushing their stones across the ice. The opening of the Winter Olympics on Friday evening (February 6th) is officially supposed to bring about “Armonia” (i.e. harmony). Instead, the political waves are already boiling over the planned appearance of the Italian rapper Ghali.
The 32-year-old from Milan and the son of Tunisian parents has been one of the most successful musicians in Italy for years. He fuses rap, pop and electronic influences, reaching a mainstream audience beyond the hip-hop scene.
Ghali also pays particular attention to the war in Gaza. At the 2024 San Remo Festival, he interrupted his performance to express solidarity with the Palestinian population and sharply criticized Israel’s military actions. Previous statements on social media were the subject of international controversy. A “problem rapper” who is rather unknown in Germany.
Italian politicians have serious concerns
Several Italian politicians have already voiced their concerns about Ghali’s invitation. The games are a celebration of sport and international understanding, not a forum for political messages, daily newspapers like quote “Corriere della Sera” from conservative government circles.
Meanwhile, Sports Minister Andrea Abodi tried to quell the smoldering fire. The opening ceremony was clearly focused on values such as respect and cohesion, he explained. Political statements by individual artists are not planned; there will be guidelines for everyone involved. Noemi Di Segni, President of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities, made a similar statement. She hopes that Ghali has received clear instructions and is aware of the special responsibility of this appearance.
Olympia should shine more through pop
The discussion comes at a time in which the International Olympic Committee is increasingly relying on pop culture as a unifying element. The Summer Olympics in Paris in 2024 already marked a clear opening towards contemporary pop and urban music, with the stated aim of appealing to younger target groups and thus also sponsors. With the reference to wanting to make cultural diversity visible.
At the same time, the IOC emphasizes its supposed political neutrality. When asked, the committee pointed out that the selection of the performing artists rested exclusively with the respective organizing committee. In Milan itself there have already been initial protests from both Israel friends and Israel opponents.
Observers fear that tensions could escalate in the run-up to or during the opening ceremony. Of all things, at a sports show that is supposed to symbolize peace, unity and fair competition.
