During the evaluation of the Carnival 2026 in São Paulo, the samba schools struggled predominantly with the criteria of evolution and percussion, affecting their overall scores.
The results of the Carnival 2026 evaluation in São Paulo were particularly affected by two criteria: evolution and percussion sections, which were the most challenging for the samba schools during the scoring on March 17. Out of the 14 competing samba schools, only five managed to achieve the maximum score in these categories, leading to tough consequences for many participants.
Despite these challenges, Mocidade Alegre secured the championship title, finishing just one-tenth ahead of the runner-up, Gaviões da Fiel. There was a notable disparity in scoring, as the judges deducted more points in the evolution and percussion categories, with only a handful of schools achieving the maximum score of 30 points, even after the lowest score was discarded. The early evaluation of these criteria contributed significantly to the competitive dynamics of the event.
In contrast, as the evaluation progressed, the criteria for the front commission proved to be quite favorable, awarding full points to 11 out of the 14 competing samba schools. Overall, the Carnival in São Paulo consisted of nine assessment criteria, including samba-enredo, harmony, and allegory, which reflects the complexity and depth of the performances showcased throughout the event.
