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Pavarotti Statue Rink Row Ignites Outrage
2 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Widow of Luciano Pavarotti is angered by an ice rink around his statue.
- The city mayor apologized after suggesting skaters high-five the statue.
- Some believe Pavarotti would have enjoyed the humorous situation.
The widow of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti has voiced her strong disapproval of an ice rink erected around his statue in Pesaro, Italy. Nicoletta Mantovani stated she was "angry and upset" by the festive installation, which she believes "ridicules" her late husband's legacy. The life-size bronze statue, placed in a central piazza last year, has become the subject of controversy.
Adding to the dismay, the mayor of Pesaro posted a manipulated image of the statue skating and humorously suggested people "high five" it. This prompted an apology from the mayor, who insisted there was no intent to disrespect Pavarotti and explained the comment was an attempt to de-escalate the situation. He assured that the statue was not meant to be incorporated into the rink.
Despite the controversy, some residents suggested that Pavarotti, known for his zest for life, might have appreciated the lightheartedness. However, the mayor ultimately issued a formal apology to Pavarotti's family via the city council's website, acknowledging the mistake in judgment and the negative reactions.
