The 75th edition of Miss Universe is facing an unusual wave of withdrawals, with 15 countries set to miss the competition in Puerto Rico. Visa restrictions, disputes over national franchise rights and personal circumstances have disrupted the line-up ahead of the grand finale on 24 November, reports NDTV.
The withdrawals have come from different parts of the world, with six Southeast Asian countries among those declared ineligible following a dispute over the licensing of their national franchises. Other contestants have pulled out because of travel difficulties, health concerns and personal reasons.
Among the six Asian countries affected by the franchise dispute are Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore and Malaysia. The Miss Universe Organisation, through JKN Universe LLC, declared their national franchise agreements invalid and ruled their representatives ineligible for this year’s competition.
The dispute centres on the authority to issue and transfer national licences for the Miss Universe brand.
Visa and travel restrictions have also affected representatives from Nepal, Angola, Zambia and the Republic of the Congo. Zambia’s representative, Mubanga Pamela Hatyoka, reportedly could not secure a US visa. Zimbabwe’s participation has also faced uncertainty over visa arrangements.
Several contestants have withdrawn for personal or health-related reasons. Miss Universe Austria Victoria Amerson announced her decision to step aside, saying she needed to prioritise her physical and mental well-being.
Miss Universe Bulgaria Ana-Maria Babau withdrew after sustaining injuries in a car accident, while Saint Martin’s representative Madly Marian cited personal reasons.
Miss Universe Maldives Aminath Yuin Mohamed and Miss Universe Morocco Sara Allali have also left the competition, although neither has publicly provided a detailed explanation for the decision.
Despite the withdrawals, the pageant is continuing in Puerto Rico, where contestants have gathered for the preliminary events. The national costume presentation is scheduled for 21 November, followed by the preliminary competition on 22 November.
The grand finale will take place on 24 November at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan. Reigning Miss Universe Fátima Bosch of Mexico will crown her successor.
The disruptions come as the competition marks its 75th edition, adding another layer of controversy to a franchise that faced significant criticism during its 2025 event in Thailand.
