Riccione (Rimini), August 10, 2026 – Riccione takes the TikTok case to court. The Municipality has authorized its Legal Department to file a complaint for aggravated defamation via social media against those responsible for the video published on the ‘Legaofficial’ channel and will seek one million euros in damages for harm to the city’s image and its tourism brand. A decision marking the shift from political controversy to legal action.
Images of Ceuta on Riccione beach
The incident erupted on August 6. The video, which has now surpassed 500,000 views, uses images referring to Ceuta and presents them as an imaginary scenario set in 2030 on a Riccione beach, populated exclusively by people with black skin.
Superimposed is the phrase: “Pov. It’s 2030, you are on the beach in Riccione and Matteo Salvini is not the Minister of the Interior”. The content appeared on a TikTok profile with a blue checkmark, over 200,000 followers, and graphics similar to those official of the Lega party.
Political dispute and controversy
Already in recent days Mayor Daniela Angelini had requested the removal of the video and an apology from Matteo Salvini if the channel was found to be linked to the party, or an intervention to protect the city if it was an unofficial profile. The controversy then reached the national level. PD deputy Andrea Gnassi announced a parliamentary question, while Lega member Jacopo Morrone described the video as “a simple provocation“, “a meme” and “an allegory” on the topic of migratory flows.
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An interpretation rejected by the Municipality
“Riccione is neither the backdrop for hate propaganda nor the stage for anyone’s provocations – states Angelini –. Defining discriminatory content as a simple provocation is an act of political and institutional irresponsibility that we are not willing to let pass silently“. For the administration, the issue is not only about political conflict but also the reputation of a major Italian tourist destination. “Hospitality, respect, and inclusion represent the deep identity of Riccione and a fundamental asset of our tourist appeal – continues the mayor –. Those who damage this image must take responsibility, including legally“.
The compensation claim
Hence the claim for one million euros. If the compensation is granted, assures Angelini, the entire amount will be allocated to the municipal fund to support rent payments for families in economic difficulty. “In the face of propaganda that divides – she concludes – Riccione responds with solidarity and support for those most in need”.
