Fights over delays of trios and accusations of racism: remember the controversies involving artists at the Salvador carnival
The 2026 carnival in Salvador was overshadowed by controversies related to delays of the trios elétricos and accusations of racism among artists.
The 2026 carnival in Salvador was marked by significant controversies, with the delays of the trios elétricos being the main source of conflicts among artists and leading to crowding on the Dodô (Barra-Ondina) circuit. In a report, G1 highlights key incidents from this year's celebrations, including a public dispute between popular singer Bell Marques and the Olodum bloc, as well as support for singer Cláudia Leitte from fellow artist Gilberto Gil, and allegations of racism raised by Carla Perez.
One major issue arose when Bell Marques expressed frustration over a halt in the Camaleão bloc's parade, attributing it to a malfunction with the Olodum truck that was leading the procession. He argued that the Camaleão was unable to maintain the rhythm due to the delays caused by the preceding bloc, insisting that the same problems recur annually, which raises questions about organization and coordination among carnival participants. His comments sparked further discussions regarding the management of the carnival and its impact on performance flow.
Additionally, the carnival atmosphere was thickened by a slew of accusations, including Carla Perez's claims that she faced racist comments during the festivities. The ongoing debates surrounding racial equality and representation in Brazilian cultural events reveal deep-rooted issues that continue to resonate within society. These controversies not only highlight the challenges faced by artists during the carnival but also reflect broader social tensions that are being increasingly scrutinized in Brazil.