Italy’s Outrage Over Crans-Montana Fire & Meloni’s Political Use of Tragedy

Italy’s Outrage Over Crans-Montana Fire & Meloni’s Political Use of Tragedy

February 26, 2026 Marcus Rodriguez - Entertainment Editor Entertainment

The Crans-Montana bar fire tragedy, which claimed the lives of 40 people – including six Italian citizens – on New Year’s Day 2026, continues to reverberate throughout Italy, extending beyond legal and political spheres and becoming a significant cultural touchstone. The incident has sparked outrage, diplomatic tensions, and is now being actively woven into the fabric of Italian public life, even appearing at the nation’s most-watched music competition.

At the Festival di Sanremo, Italy’s largest music competition, a performance on Wednesday was dedicated to the victims of the fire. Achille Lauro, a prominent Italian artist, performed “Perdutamente” alongside a soprano, choir, and orchestra on a stage deliberately rendered almost entirely in black. According to Italian correspondent Franco Battel, the song has evolved into a de facto anthem of remembrance. “What is played on the stage at Sanremo reflects the heart of society,” Battel explained. “That is to say: Crans-Montana is not a topic that only concerns the judiciary or politics, but the entire country.”

Italian star Achille Lauro sings “Perdutamente” at the Sanremo Festival with a choir and orchestra. Keystone/Riccardo Antimiani

The depth of Italian anger stems from several factors. The loss of six Italian citizens is a primary driver, but it’s compounded by questions surrounding the circumstances of the fire and the subsequent handling of the case by Swiss authorities. Italians are questioning how such a tragedy could occur in “perfect” Switzerland, and why Jacques Moretti, the co-owner of the bar, was released on bail after a brief period of detention. There’s also scrutiny directed at the mayor of Crans-Montana, with some questioning why they didn’t immediately resign. “These are all things that are simply not understood in Italy,” Battel stated. He added that awareness of and interest in Switzerland is generally low in Italy, but the fire has changed that. “The tragedy has the potential to become so ingrained in the Italian psyche that when people think of Switzerland, they immediately think of the fire in Crans-Montana.”

Joint Investigations?

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Italy has requested a joint investigation, seeking to participate directly in the inquiry rather than allowing Switzerland to investigate independently. However, as the incident occurred on Swiss soil, jurisdiction rests with Swiss authorities, who have pledged “enhanced cooperation.” Italy remains unsatisfied with this arrangement.

Italy recalled its ambassador from Bern a month ago in protest of Moretti’s release, signaling a significant strain on diplomatic relations.

SRF inquired with the Federal Office of Justice regarding their assessment of the cooperation. The office responded that correspondence between Italian and Swiss authorities is confidential and not for public release, adding that they have “nothing to add” following a recent press conference on the matter.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni quickly recognized the political potential of the tragedy. Battel notes that Meloni, known for her populist tendencies, understood the opportunity to garner public support. Her actions, such as promptly recalling the Italian ambassador, were more assertive than necessary, but appear strategically calculated to appeal to public sentiment. “She seems unconcerned with jeopardizing relations with Switzerland – the priority is to ensure public approval. That is typical of Meloni. She understands how to use – or exploit – the mood of the people.”

Giorgia Meloni walks past a line of saluting soldiers on her way to the memorial service in early January.
The fire tragedy is also a major topic for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni: in addition to attending a memorial service in Rome (pictured), she frequently comments on the platform X. For example, she described the release of bar owner Moretti from custody as an insult to the families of the victims. Keystone/Riccardo Antimiani

The long-term impact on diplomatic relations between Italy and Switzerland remains uncertain. Battel suggests it will depend on how long the issue remains prominent in the Italian media. The investigations, potential compensation claims, and legal proceedings are expected to be protracted, creating numerous potential flashpoints. “The relationship will likely be strained for a long time.”