Bambas do Ritmo has been crowned the champion of the 2026 carnival in Três Rios, a city in the state of Rio de Janeiro, with the announcement made on Thursday afternoon, March 19. This victory marks their second consecutive win and their eighteenth title overall, showcasing their remarkable history in Brazilian carnival. The school's theme this year, "Nhô João: In the rosary of the black people, an old miracle worker and blessed soul of cafundó," centers around a pivotal figure in Afro-Brazilian culture and popular devotion.

The parade presented by Bambas do Ritmo highlighted the rich narratives of religious practices and cultural heritage in the Afro-Brazilian community, using floats that depicted scenes of prayer and traditional rituals. One of the standout floats featured Nhô João, adorned with symbols of faith and resistance, reflecting the profound spiritual connection felt within these communities. The visual elements of the parade incorporated religious imagery alongside elements from Congá, illustrating the deep reverence for cultural roots and identities.

In the final rankings, Bambas do Ritmo scored an impressive 179.30 points, outpacing its closest competitors, GRES Bom das Bocas and GRES Sonhos de Mixyricka, who scored 177.80 and 177.20 respectively. This achievement not only celebrates the school’s legacy but also serves to fortify the importance of Afro-Brazilian culture within the public consciousness and the broader context of Brazilian carnival traditions.