The global beauty pageant “Miss Universe 2026” is facing a major controversy ahead of its final.
According to international media reports, contestants from various countries are arriving in Puerto Rico for the 75th edition of Miss Universe. However, the event’s appeal has been dented by several withdrawals and by the exclusion of six Asian countries before the competition begins.
The report adds that some contestants pulled out for health and personal reasons, while several countries faced visa restrictions and administrative disputes.
Miss Universe Austria, Victoria Emerson, announced her withdrawal, saying she was prioritizing her mental and physical health.
Bulgaria’s contestant, Ana Maria Babau, was unable to take part after being injured in a car accident.
Similarly, Saint Martin’s contestant, Madelie Marian, decided to withdraw for personal reasons.
The representatives of the Maldives and Morocco have also withdrawn, though no reasons have been given.
The report states that six Asian countries, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore and Malaysia, will not be represented at Miss Universe 2026.
According to the report, disagreements over national franchises and pageant licensing rights led to the contestants from these countries being disqualified from the international competition. Despite the dispute, the beauty queens selected at the national level in these countries will keep their national titles.
Vietnam is set to host the 76th edition of Miss Universe next year.
Representation from Nepal, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of the Congo was also affected by visa problems or US visa restrictions.
Zambia’s contestant, Mbanga Pamela Hatiyuka, could not take part after failing to secure a US visa, while Zimbabwe’s contestant, Rosiana Hall, was still trying to obtain a visa in South Africa.
The grand final of Miss Universe 2026 will be held on November 24 in San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico.