The 75th Miss Universe pageant is facing growing controversies involving funding disputes, franchise disagreements, visa restrictions, contestant withdrawals, and production criticisms ahead of its scheduled coronation night on November 24, 2026, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The upcoming 75th edition of the Miss Universe pageant is facing a series of challenges just days before its highly anticipated coronation night on November 24, 2026, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Issues involving government funding, disagreements over regional franchises, visa restrictions, contestant withdrawals, and production quality have put the international competition under public scrutiny.
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What was supposed to be a memorable celebration of the pageant’s 75-year history has instead been overshadowed by several controversies. These developments have raised questions about the organization’s preparations and its ability to deliver the international event as expected.
Puerto Rico Withholds Remaining Pageant Funds
Financial concerns have become one of the biggest issues surrounding this year’s competition after the Puerto Rico Tourism Company reportedly decided to suspend the release of additional public funds allocated for the event.
The agency had already provided $3.2 million but withheld the remaining amount while seeking clarification from Miss Universe executives regarding transparency, proposals that were not previously approved, and other hosting requirements.
The funding issue has also raised the possibility of Puerto Rico reconsidering its hosting commitment. Local officials have reportedly warned that the event could be canceled if the organization fails to address their concerns, including demands for greater transparency in the presentation of official voting results.
The development has added another challenge for organizers as the host territory prepares for the pageant’s milestone edition.
Franchise Dispute Puts Southeast Asian Delegates in Uncertainty
The participation of several Southeast Asian representatives has also been affected by a disagreement between the Miss Universe Organization and Miss Universe Eastern, headed by Nawat Itsaragrisil.
The dispute reportedly involves six countries: Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos. Their regional franchise arrangements have been declared void by the Miss Universe Organization, creating uncertainty over the participation of their respective delegates.
The situation has drawn attention to the continuing disagreement between the organizations, with national representatives caught in the middle despite their preparations for the international competition.
U.S. Travel Restrictions Create Problems for African Contestants
Travel requirements have presented another obstacle for some contestants, particularly those coming from African countries.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe representative Roseanna Hall has reportedly experienced difficulties obtaining a U.S. visa needed to travel to the host territory.
Zambia, meanwhile, has withdrawn its representative, Pamela Mubanga, following concerns related to the travel restrictions.
These developments have raised concerns about how international travel policies can affect contestants’ opportunities to participate in major global events, especially when representatives face difficulties securing the necessary entry documents.
Withdrawals Add to Competition’s Growing Challenges
The pageant has also seen other contestants withdraw for reasons unrelated to the regional franchise dispute or travel restrictions.
Among them is Miss Universe Bulgaria representative Ana-Maria Babau, who reportedly pulled out of the competition following a serious car accident.
Other withdrawals have also been linked to health concerns, personal circumstances, and franchise-related issues, further affecting the expected lineup of international delegates.
Pageant Fans Express Disappointment Over Production
Aside from organizational and participation issues, the pageant’s early activities in Puerto Rico have also received criticism from fans.
Some viewers expressed disappointment with the welcome and swimsuit presentations, particularly the stage setup and livestream quality. Several fans described the production as falling short of their expectations for an event celebrating the competition’s 75th anniversary.
The criticism has fueled discussions among pageant followers, many of whom had expected a more polished presentation for such a significant edition of the international competition.
Organizers Face Pressure Ahead of Coronation Night
With the November 24 coronation drawing closer, the Miss Universe Organization faces several issues that could affect the overall event. From financial disagreements with its host territory to franchise disputes and concerns over production quality, the organization has multiple matters to address before the final night.
Despite the controversies, the competition remains scheduled to take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico. However, the developments surrounding its 75th edition have continued to attract attention from pageant followers worldwide, making this year’s competition one of the most closely watched editions in recent years.