Fifteen countries to miss 75th Miss Universe pageant

The 75th edition of the Miss Universe pageant is facing a series of withdrawals and participation disputes, with contestants from 15 countries reportedly set to miss the competition.

The grand finale is scheduled to take place in San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico. However, visa complications, franchise disputes, health issues and personal reasons have affected participation ahead of the event.

The absence of six Asian countries has drawn particular attention, with corporate and franchise disputes cited as the reason for their withdrawal. Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore and Malaysia will not participate in this year’s pageant.

Despite their absence, representatives from these countries will reportedly retain their national titles. Vietnam is also scheduled to host the 76th Miss Universe pageant next year.

Among the individual withdrawals, Miss Universe Austria representative Victoria Amerson recently announced her decision to step down in an Instagram post.

She cited her personal values and the need to protect her mental and physical well-being as the main reasons for her decision. Reflecting on her experience, she said the journey had helped her understand herself better and recognise what she was willing to accept.

She added that her strength and achievements, rather than a crown or title, defined her sense of victory.

Miss Universe Bulgaria representative Anna-Maria has also withdrawn after sustaining injuries in a road accident. Organisers said her physical condition would not allow her to compete in the final. They emphasised that the health and well-being of contestants remained a priority.

Madly Mariane, representing Saint Martin, also announced her withdrawal for personal reasons. In a social media statement, she said the decision had not been easy but had come after considerable thought.

Visa difficulties and US travel restrictions have also prevented contestants from several countries from participating. They include Nepal, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the Republic of the Congo.

Meanwhile, Aminath Uyeen Mohamed of the Maldives and Sarah Allali of Morocco have also withdrawn. However, the reasons for their decisions have not been officially clarified.