The Unidos do Viradouro samba school has marked a significant turnaround since its return to the first division of the carnival, clinching its fourth title in the elite category with its 2026 victory. This success is not only reflected in their championship wins but also in their solid ranking within the Liga Independente das Escolas de Samba (Liesa), where they have amassed 77 points since 2021. Their performance has secured them a spot in the Desfile das Campeãs every year since their return, demonstrating consistency in high-level performance, with their lowest placement being a commendable fourth place.

A decade ago, however, Viradouro was facing a challenging situation, relegated to the Série Ouro and struggling financially. The discord within the school required a crucial restructuring, and the 2017 Carnival preparations were fraught with uncertainty due to leadership changes. This period of hardship catalyzed an internal reorganization led by key figures within the school. This transformation laid the groundwork for their future successes and improved their operational strategies in the competitive world of samba schools.

Key players in this resurgence, like Dudu Falcão, the general director of harmony, have emphasized that the changes began behind the scenes, focusing on aligning narratives and a more unified approach across all levels of the organization. The success of Viradouro is attributed not just to their on-stage performances but also to the rigorous work done to stabilize finances, build a strong leadership framework, and cultivate a passionate community around their samba school, ultimately ensuring their continuing legacy in the Brazilian Carnival.