Unidos do Viradouro is a powerhouse hailing from the city of Niterói, across the bay from Rio, and is celebrated for its explosive energy and impeccable technical execution. Founded in 1946, the school reached its legendary status in the 1990s under the creative genius of Joãosinho Trinta, famously featuring a "drumming on fire" performance that remains one of the most iconic moments in Sambadrome history. Represented by the colors red and white, Viradouro is known for its "drum wing of the heart" (Bateria Furacão Vermelho e Branco), which delivers a thunderous and innovative rhythm.

 

In recent years, the school has undergone a spectacular revival, winning the 2020 and 2024 championships with parades that blended cinematic visual effects with deeply researched tributes to Afro-Brazilian history and feminine strength. This combination of high-budget spectacle, rigorous discipline, and passionate community support has solidified Viradouro as a dominant force and a perennial favorite for the title.