MUO says the news is “false and misleading”
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has debunked the announcement of Saudi Arabia regarding its supposed participation in the 73rd edition of the beauty pageant at the latter part of 2024.
A certain Rumy Al-Qahtani from Saudi Arabia made waves on March 27, 2024 after she announced on her official Instagram account that she’s gearing up for a Miss Universe bid.
The news gained much attention from pageant enthusiasts and news outlets as this would have been the first time that the middle-eastern country will participate in the 72-year-old pageant.
READ ALSO: Saudi Arabia Set To Send First-Ever Candidate To Miss Universe
Shortly after the announcement broke across the internet, the Miss Universe Organization released via Vivian Nereim of New York Times the truth that there was not any “selection process” made in the country.
The statement begins, “Miss Universe Organization would like to address recent reports claiming the participation of a contestant representing Saudi Arabia in this year’s competition.
“We would like to categorically state that no selection process has been conducted in Saudi Arabia, and any such claims are false and misleading.”
The MUO has also clarified that the delegation is usually a meticulous process that requires adherence to their terms and policies.
It continues, “The selection of contestants to represent their respective countries in the Miss Universe competition is a rigorous process that adheres to our policies and guidelines.
“Each country’s selection is carried out in accordance with established criteria and regulations, ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection of participants.
“As we prepare for the upcoming edition of the Miss Universe contest in Mexico, we are proud to announce that we will welcome over 100 contestants from various nationalities around the world.
“We are committed to showcasing diversity and inclusivity on our global stage, celebrating the beauty and talents of women from all walks of life.”
In the end, the organization says that while Saudi Arabia will miss this year’s edition, its scheduled participation in the future is already in the works.
“While Saudi Arabia is not yet among those countries fully confirmed participating this year, we are currently undergoing a rigorous vetting process qualifying a potential candidate to be awarded the franchise and assigned national director to represent.
“Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee.”
Miss Universe is slated at the latter part of the year, with Mexico being the host country for the 73rd edition.
The eventual winner will be crowned by Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua—passing over the duties of Miss Universe especially with high regard to advocate for social good. The organization is currently owned by Thai business mogul Anne Jakrajutatip after JKN Global’s successful acquisition of the label in 2022.
Banner Art Paulo Correa
