Marco balich : Des cérémonies olympiques à la politique vénitienne ?
VENISE – 23 Mai 2025 –
Cet article explore le parcours de Marco Balich, célèbre pour ses cérémonies olympiques, se demandant s’il envisage de se lancer en politique à Venise. Qui est Marco Balich ? Où a-t-il grandi ? Quand pourrait-il se présenter ? Pourquoi s’intéresse-t-il à la politique ? Balich lui-même apporte des réponses perspicaces, fort de son expertise et de son expérience incontestable, suggérant un possible virage politique de ce maître du spectacle.
here’s a rewritten version of the article, focusing on clarity, flow, and readability:
Marco Balich: From Olympic Ceremonies to Venetian Politics?
By Elvira serra
Marco Balich is a master of spectacle. He’s orchestrated the grand ceremonies of 16 Olympic and Paralympic Games, 13 regional games from the Pan Americans to the Asian games, and even the Qatar world Cup. Beyond that, he’s organized tours for music legends like Pink Floyd, U2, and the Rolling Stones, and created music videos for Italian stars Jovanotti and Laura Pausini. A divorced father of four (Pilar, twins Zeno and Anita, and Lola), Balich describes himself as a modern-day impresario, someone who brings complex and emotionally resonant projects to life, from Mexico’s bicentennial celebrations to Dolce & Gabbana fashion shows.A Venetian Childhood
Balich reflects fondly on his Venetian upbringing: “If you are born in Venice you are surrounded by beauty; The rich lives near the poor and there are no drivers who take you to school; Between the biennale of Art and the Film Festival, the Redeemer and Carnival Festival, you constantly live in a cultural nativity scene. Even the simplest knows how to give you a more advanced opinion of any full of San Francisco.” He recalls playing ball with friends,fencing,and a year studying in Chicago. he admits to skipping class at Marco Polo high school to DJ at parties.his father was a lawyer, and his mother an English professor at Ca’ Foscari.
A Run for Mayor?
when asked about the possibility of running for mayor of Venice, a position Arrigo Cipriani has also expressed interest in, Balich doesn’t dismiss the idea entirely. “I love my city; it should be the world center of art. I would do everything electric and hydrogen by 2030.Airbnb should have a roof, to allow young people to return to live there.” He supports a tourist entry fee, suggesting a swiss-style model with a single 20-euro ticket valid for the entire year to combat overcrowding.
While he acknowledges the compromises inherent in politics, he hasn’t ruled out a future run. “I don’t think I am psychologically ready for the compromises of politics, but I have not closed the door.” he emphasizes his love for Venice and the need to preserve and revitalize it. He laments the loss of traditional crafts and the proliferation of cheap souvenirs.
facing Criticism and Building an Empire
Balich’s work hasn’t been without its critics. He mentions the backlash he received for the “Tree of Life” at Expo 2015. He dismisses critics who offer opinions without understanding the complexities of a project.
Despite the challenges,Balich’s Balich Wonder Studio has thrived. he takes pride in building an industry in Milan that rivals those in New York, Los Angeles, and London, and in mentoring talented individuals who have gone on to become successful managers abroad. His mantra is: “Better to be the last team in the strongest championship than the first of the courtyard.”
Business Success and Extravagant Events
In 2022, his company generated 320 million in revenue. While the following year saw a slight dip due to global events, the company employs 240 people across Milan, Dubai, and Riyadh. Recently, he sold 51% of the company to Banijay, a global leader in TV formats.
Balich recounts organizing an extravagant Indian wedding at Borgo Egnazia,the same location as the upcoming G7 summit. The bride’s father sought him out after the turin Olympics ceremony, and after some initial hesitation, Balich agreed. The cost? A staggering 18 million.
Looking Ahead
If asked to create the ceremonies for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, Balich says he would focus on Italy’s rich heritage, the importance of preserving nature, and inspiring young people with stories of Italian heroes. He also expresses a desire for greater collaboration within Italy, citing the success of the design industry as an example of what can be achieved through teamwork.
When asked about his favorite ceremonies, he highlights the Athens Olympics in 2004 and the Rio Olympics in 2016. He also mentions the inauguration of the clock tower in Piazza San Marco in Venice.
