Beginning the event was Mangueira, who secured sixth place, while Beija Flor de Nilópolis, the 2025 champions, concluded the proceedings with a powerful display.

Beja Flor’s victory was particularly poignant as their parade paid homage to Laila, their late carnival director who passed away in 2021. It was also a significant moment for Neguinho da Beija-Flor, the legendary samba singer and composer, who announced his retirement after nearly five decades as the school’s official interpreter.

Judges declared the winner on Wednesday, assessing schools in various performance categories.

For many of the performers, the closing parade was a moment to savor and a testament to their hard work.

Thiago Alves, a performer at Mangueira Samba School, shared his sentiment: “To perform in the champions’ parade is incredibly fulfilling. It validates all the effort we put into months of rehearsals. Being among the top six schools is a testament to our dedication.”

Iris Giles, also a member of Mangueira, captured the emotional high of performing: “Stepping onto the Sambadrome is indescribable—it’s pure exhilaration. A different version of myself is there, radiating joy that’s beyond words.”

Originally held over two nights with six schools each, the elite ‘special group’ competition in Rio now unfolds over three nights featuring four schools per night.

The Sambadrome, a cornerstone of Brazil’s Carnival since the 1980s, continues to be the focal point of the country’s vibrant celebration of culture, music, and dance.