Former Tourism Minister Santanchè Thanks Team in First Public Message After Resignation

Former Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè has posted her first public message following her resignation last Thursday evening. In a video address filmed outdoors from a private estate in Versilia, Tuscany, she thanked her team and reflected on her tenure at the Italy Tourism Ministry.

The Farewell Message

Wearing a two-tone brown suit and appearing relaxed, Santanchè addressed the camera from the grounds of a villa in Versilia, a coastal retreat area in Tuscany. In her statement, she emphasized teamwork and credited her success to the ministry's staff. "Each person brought passion, determination, and commitment, and over these three and a half years we have been a team—because I believe you never win alone," she said.

She singled out various team members across different departments, stating she would remember each individual personally. "Life is long, and you must always remember to be together, to be a team," she added. She concluded by urging her former colleagues to "Keep working like this, keep advancing the Ministry of Tourism, because—as we have always said—it is important for the growth of our national economy."

Santanchè insisted the ministry had "worked really well" during her time in office, attributing any success to what she called a "fantastic team" rather than to herself.

Resignation Context

Santanchè's resignation on Thursday evening came amid sustained scrutiny due to judicial investigations related to her business activities, though no conviction has been recorded. She did not address the legal matters directly in her video message.

Her departure comes as the tourism sector continues its recovery from the pandemic, with international arrivals surpassing pre-2020 levels. Tourism represents roughly 13% of Italy's GDP.

What Happens Next

Prime Minister Meloni is expected to announce a successor in the coming days. Until a new minister is confirmed, the Tourism Ministry's Secretary General will oversee day-to-day operations. The video, posted on Santanchè's social media accounts, marked her first public appearance since the announcement of her resignation.