Império da Tijuca President Apologizes After Viral Video as Elisa Sanches Keeps 2026 Parade Plans

Overview

• Elisa Sanches was unexpectedly introduced as Império da Tijuca’s rainha de bateria on Nov. 2 during the school president’s birthday event in Rio.
• Footage of her dancing onstage in a short skirt without underwear circulated widely online, drawing sharp criticism from some sambistas and social media users.
• President Thiago Carvalho issued a public apology, called the moment unplanned, accepted responsibility, and said the quadra was not an appropriate setting for that display.
• Sanches told Extra she had not prepared for a coronation, wore an open skirt because her bikini was dirty, and had drunk more than intended, saying the dance happened after the ceremony at the birthday gathering.
• Despite the uproar, Sanches remains confirmed to parade with Unidos do Porto da Pedra in the 2026 carnival.