On the eve of the results announcement for the Rio de Janeiro Carnival's Special Group, the atmosphere is charged with public messages and behind-the-scenes pressure directed at the Liga Independente das Escolas de Samba (Liesa) and the judges. The Salgueiro samba school, even before it takes to the streets for its parade as the last school, has publicly expressed its confidence in fair judging, thereby sending a not-so-subtle message aimed at Ailton Guimarães Jorge, known as Captain Guimarães, who has been convicted by the justice system and is a patron of the Vila Isabel samba school.

As tensions rise, it appears that Captain Guimarães has been suggesting that Vila Isabel is the clear favorite for the title, which has caused some unrest among other schools. However, the Viradouro's performance during the parades has thrown another contender into the mix, potentially altering the expectations surrounding the competition. The rivalry and political maneuvering behind the scenes reflect the complex dynamics of the Carnival festival, revealing how the samba schools are not just engaging in artistic competition but are also embroiled in power struggles and allegiances.

The patron of Salgueiro, Adilson de Oliveira Coutinho—often referred to as 'Adilsinho'—is also implicated in similar controversies and investigations, indicating a broader trend of connections between organized crime and Carnival politics. This scenario underscores the intricate relationship between culture, community, and power in one of Brazil's most celebrated events, as the outcomes of the parades could significantly impact the social fabric surrounding the Carnival festivities.