Singapore’s new Miss Universe won’t be going to Puerto Rico - neither will Malaysia’s
Miss Universe Singapore 2026, Vion Erico Tan, and representatives from five other Southeast Asian nations are barred from competing in the upcoming Miss Universe pageant. The Miss Universe Organisation cited invalid franchise agreements as the reason for the disqualification.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights the complexities of international brand licensing and the impact of corporate legal battles on cultural representation.
SINGAPORE, Oct 24 — Slightly over a week after being crowned Miss Universe Singapore 2026, Vion Erico Tan has received some disappointing news.
The beauty queen will no longer be competing at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico slated for November 24, following an ongoing dispute over franchise rights.
“I’ve just received the news, and honestly, it has hit me harder than I can put into words,” the 22-year-old wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday (October 21).
Reflecting on the experience, Vion shared that the pageant journey was “never just about a crown or competition”.
Rather, it was a meaningful opportunity to represent Singapore on the international stage, sharing its culture, stories and spirit.
Thanking everyone for their support, the Miss Universe Singapore 2026 winner said that while she is unsure of what the next chapter holds, she is determined not to let the situation falter her.
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