Miss Universe Organization
The Miss Universe Organization has released a statement rebutting reports suggesting Saudi Arabia’s participation in this year’s pageant.
In a categorical denial issued on Monday, the organization clarified that no selection process has occurred in Saudi Arabia, dismissing any assertions to the contrary as false and misleading.
In addition, the statement follows social media posts by Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani, who claimed to represent the kingdom in the prestigious pageant.
Alqahtani’s viral post, featuring images of her holding the Saudi flag and adorned with a Miss Universe sash, stirred widespread attention as she purportedly would have been the first Saudi woman to vie for the crown.
Miss Universe emphasized the rigorous nature of the contestant selection process for each country, ensuring adherence to established criteria and regulations to maintain fairness and transparency.
Despite Alqahtani’s claims, Saudi Arabia has not been officially included among the over 100 countries slated to participate in this year’s pageant in Mexico.
While acknowledging ongoing vetting processes for potential candidates to secure the franchise and national directorship, Miss Universe underscored that Saudi Arabia’s participation would only be confirmed upon completion of the requisite approval procedures by the organization’s committee.
The organization’s stance reflects its commitment to upholding the integrity and credibility of the Miss Universe pageant, emphasizing the importance of adherence to established protocols in contestant selection.
As the process unfolds, Miss Universe assures that any official announcements regarding Saudi Arabia’s participation will be made following thorough vetting and approval procedures.
