Raija Mäntyniemi & Juho Punkeri
The 2026 Tango Kings were crowned in a live final broadcast held at the Seinäjoki Tango Arena on July 11. The winners were decided by public votes, and Raija Mäntyniemi was crowned Tango Queen, while Juho Punkeri was elected Tango King.
Raija Mäntyniemi is a singer from Kauhajoki, whose strong emotional expression and love for traditional tango have impressed both the audience and the jury. Music has been with her throughout her life, as Raija grew up in a musical family surrounded by singers, musicians and dancers. On the final night, she charmed the audience with her performances of the songs Yö saaristossa and Yö väistyy.
Juho Punkeri, on the other hand, arrived at Tangomarkinka for the first time and immediately claimed his place among the brightest stars of the tango sky. Juho, who lives in Hämeenlinna, is known for his diverse musical background, which includes violin playing, church music studies and opera training. In the final, his strong interpretation was heard in the songs Miksi kerroit mulle valheen and Kuu.
Raija and Juho form a tango couple that combines strong musical expertise, genuine presence and respect for traditional tango. The tango kings' first joint performance was seen on the Kirjaslammi dance stage in Valkeakoski on July 16, 2026, when the audience got to experience the magic of the new royal couple on the same stage for the first time.
