Juliana Paes Steps Down as Viradouro’s Drum Queen After 2026 Title

Overview

• Juliana Paes, who announced the move Saturday in a social media video, said a heavy 2027 work slate means she cannot give the post the time it needs.
• She said she will stay close to Unidos do Viradouro and help as the school selects a new rainha de bateria, with more news promised in stages.
• Her 2026 return after 17 years brought her first personal title as Viradouro earned its fourth crown with the “Pra Cima, Ciça” tribute to mestre Ciça.
• Paes said she accepted the role to honor mestre Ciça and her father, and she called the victory a dream she had long hoped to live.
• The rainha de bateria leads the drum section and serves as a year-round public face for the samba school, so steady presence and availability are central to the job.