The Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG) erupted with excitement on Sunday night as some of the nation’s top soca performers battled for supremacy in the 2026 Inet Party Monarch competition, with Young Lyrics and Tian Winter emerging as this year’s champions.
Young Lyrics captured the coveted Groovy Soca Monarch title after delivering a performance that resonated with both judges and the enthusiastic carnival crowd. Tian Winter finished as first runner-up in the Groovy category, while Vicious secured the second runner-up position.
Tian Winter returned to the stage later in the evening to claim the Jumpy Soca Monarch crown, capping off an impressive night that saw the artist earn two podium finishes. Ballo finished as first runner-up in the Jumpy competition, while Kid Fresh claimed second runner-up honours.
The annual competition once again highlighted the diversity and strength of Antigua and Barbuda’s soca music, with performers delivering original songs, energetic stage productions and crowd-pleasing performances in one of the most anticipated events of Antigua Carnival.
Organisers congratulated all the artistes who took part, applauding their dedication, creativity and commitment to keeping the spirit of Antiguan soca alive. They also recognised the contributions of the bands, dancers, musicians and production teams whose efforts helped deliver another memorable edition of the Inet Party Monarch competition.
The official results saw Young Lyrics crowned the 2026 Groovy Soca Monarch, followed by Tian Winter as first runner-up and Vicious as second runner-up. In the Jumpy Soca Monarch category, Tian Winter claimed the title, with Ballo finishing first runner-up and Kid Fresh taking second runner-up.
The 2026 Inet Party Monarch Finals added another exciting chapter to Antigua Carnival, celebrating the talent, creativity and infectious rhythms that continue to make soca music the heartbeat of the nation’s premier cultural festival.
And last night’s results especially for the jumpy reminded me of why I boycotted that show for many years. Congratulations Ballo you did amazing