Six Nations Withdraw From Miss Universe 75 in Puerto Rico

The 75th Miss Universe pageant started in Puerto Rico this weekend with a reduced field after several countries pulled out. Delegates arrived at the airport, where host Jeniffer Barreto, Miss Universe Puerto Rico, greeted them with magarita flowers and gift bags. The ceremonies proceeded despite the roster changes announced via social media and official statements.

Six nations have confirmed they will not compete in the current cycle. Bulgaria, Austria, Nepal, St. Martin, Mongolia, and Zambia are absent. The organization released a statement saying Bulgaria’s candidate, Ana Maria Babau, suffered a car accident and is not physically fit to participate. Austria’s Victoria Amerson cited personal health and well-being, describing the pressure and lack of autonomy as a heavy emotional and physical burden.

Nepal’s Prayashna Gurung explained on Instagram that visa processing issues prevented her travel. She stated she will return for the 2027 edition, while her successor will compete in 2028. St. Martin, which was crowned in October, will be represented by Elle Duncan instead of the original delegate. Mongolia provided no specific details for the change but named its first runner-up, Namuunaa Otgonbaatar, as the new representative. Zambia’s delegate also missed the event due to visa problems.

A dispute between the Miss Universe East and West franchise holders affected the Asian contingent. Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore were barred from this edition. The Dominican Republic remained in the competition after Melissa Núñez and her director, Magaly Febles, were treated for a vehicular accident over the weekend. Medical staff cleared Núñez to fly, and she is now in Puerto Rico.

The final competition will air on Telemundo, the official broadcaster. Jacky Bracamontes and Carlos Adan will host the show. They will be joined by Alyeda Ortiz, Clovis Nienow, and Jessica Carrillo. The event marks the first major pageant under the new franchise structure, with the roster finalized just before the live broadcast.