Unidos do Viradouro has been crowned the champion of the 2026 Rio de Janeiro Carnival, marking its fourth title since its establishment in 1946. The samba school's triumph was highlighted by the emotional theme 'Pra cima, Ciça', a tribute to their beloved drum master who has been part of the school's history for the last 15 years. During the results announcement, which took place on Wednesday afternoon, Viradouro secured perfect scores across all categories, totaling 270 points and edging out rivals Beija-Flor and Vila Isabel by a mere 0.1 point.

Based in Niterói, Unidos do Viradouro has long been a participant in the Rio Carnival, boasting three previous victories in the Special Group, notably in 1997, 2020, and 2024. The previous championship saw the school deliver a flawless performance with the theme 'Arroboboi, Dangbé', which focused on the Vodou cult of serpents. These continual successes highlight Viradouro's strong presence and competitive edge within the carnival scene, affirming its place among the leading samba schools.

The announcement brought an outpouring of joy from supporters, with the city's Sambadrome buzzing with excitement as fans celebrated their school's achievement. This latest victory not only enhances Viradouro's legacy but also underscores the cultural significance of samba schools in Brazil, particularly how community ties and religious themes are woven into their performances, making them much more than just competition but a celebration of heritage and identity.