In heavy Rio rain, Igor Almeida received his sash and confirmed a 7th straight year as a Unidos de Bangu muse for Carnival 2026.
Not even the downpour that hit the city on Wednesday night (04) disrupted the sash ceremony for the school’s team of muses. During the event, the red-and-white Zona Oeste samba school saw Almeida renew his commitment for another Carnival season.
Seven years of loyalty to the flag
Enjoying a standout moment on the samba scene, Almeida highlighted the meaning of the number 7, which marks his seventh consecutive stint as a muse. For him, the sash is more than a title—it signals an ongoing promise to carry the school’s spirit with discipline and accountability.
“Receiving the muse sash for the seventh year is confirmation of a journey built with dedication, affection, and love for the flag. It’s not just repeating a title—it’s renewing a commitment every year, keeping the essence, the shine, and the responsibility to inspire alive. Unidos de Bangu is an extension of my home, so I can only honor this place.”
“Zé do Caroço” outfit echoes the storyline
To mark the occasion, he chose to reuse his “Zé do Caroço” look, a direct nod to one of Leci Brandão’s songs—Brandão is the honoree of Unidos de Bangu’s Carnival theme this year. Almeida says he studied the synopsis and connected immediately with the character’s story, tied to community organizing during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
“When I started building the outfit, I studied the synopsis and immediately connected with Zé do Caroço’s story. Thinking of someone who, during the military dictatorship, looked out for his community in Pau da Bandeira, in Vila Isabel, and acted as a social activist. I wanted to bring that story—and the loudspeaker—to put the message out there.”
Backstage roles and parade date
In the months leading up to the parade, Almeida says he’s fully focused on Carnival and also holds key responsibilities inside the school. Beyond being a muse, he serves as president of the combined wings and coordinates the group of muses.
With eight days to go, he is set to step onto the Sambadrome on February 13, when Unidos de Bangu will be the fourth school of the night. The school will present the theme “As coisas que mamãe me ensinou”, paying tribute to singer Leci Brandão.
Photo: Divulgação
