Elisa Sanches Named Império da Tijuca Drum Queen, Prompting School Apology

Overview

• Império da Tijuca president Thiago Carvalho apologized and called the episode an unplanned moment during his birthday event at the school’s quadra.
• Footage of Sanches dancing without underwear spread widely online, drawing sharp criticism from samba figures such as Flora Cruz as well as some public support.
• Sanches said she did not expect to be invited as drum queen, had drunk more than usual, and wore an open skirt that led to exposure.
• The appointment of an adult-content creator from outside the samba community intensified debate over tradition and who represents a school.
• Sanches remains confirmed to parade with Unidos do Porto da Pedra in the 2026 carnival.