national competitions

Miss Universe Fátima Bosch is heading to Santo Domingo: Is she selecting the new Miss Dominican Republic?


The reigning queen is expected to take part in official appearances, media events, and pageant-related activities leading up to the final


 Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch takes part in the final competition of the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 21, 2025. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / AFP) (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)          © AFP via Getty Images
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
JULY 28, 2026 4:02 PM EDT

The countdown to Miss Dominican Republic 2026 just became even more exciting. Reigning Miss Universe 2025 Fátima Bosch is set to attend the national pageant, bringing one of the world's most recognizable beauty queens to one of Latin America's most successful pageant countries. Her visit comes just days before the Dominican Republic crowns the woman who will represent the nation at Miss Universe 2026, making this year's event one of the most anticipated on the pageant calendar. 

Since winning the Miss Universe crown, Fátima Bosch has traveled around the world as part of her official duties, promoting the organization while participating in cultural events and national competitions. Her second stop in the Dominican Republic continues that global tour and reinforces the country's importance within the Miss Universe community. 

For Fátima, travel as Miss Universe is not just about appearances, but about learning, participation, and respect for local traditions.© Miss Universe
For Fátima, travel as Miss Universe is not just about appearances, but about learning, participation, and respect for local traditions.

The reigning queen is expected to take part in official appearances, media events, and pageant-related activities leading up to the Miss Dominican Republic final.

Her presence also gives contestants the rare opportunity to meet and share the stage with the current Miss Universe before one of them begins her own journey to the international competition.

The Dominican Republic Continues to Raise the Bar

The Dominican Republic has earned a reputation for producing standout contestants who consistently impress on the Miss Universe stage.

Every year, the national competition attracts highly trained delegates from across the country, all competing for the chance to wear the national crown. From runway presentation to public speaking and advocacy work, contestants spend months preparing for one of the country's most prestigious televised events.

Victoria Kjaer crowns Jennifer Ventura as Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2025: What happened to Celinee Santos?© @edwardtavarezrd
Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjaer, crowned Jennifer Ventura as Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2025

Miss Dominican Republic 2026 arrives during one of the busiest periods of the international pageant season, with national competitions taking place across the globe ahead of Miss Universe 2026.

What Happens Next?

Once Miss Dominican Republic 2026 is crowned, the winner will begin preparations to compete at Miss Universe 2026, where she will join contestants from more than 100 countries and territories in Puerto Rico later this year. Fátima Bosch is expected to crown her successor at the conclusion of the international competition. 

Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch celebrates winning the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 21, 2025© LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA
Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch celebrates winning the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 21, 2025

Until then, all eyes will be on Santo Domingo as one of the biggest nights in Dominican pageantry unfolds with the reigning Miss Universe in attendance.

FAQ

Why is Fátima Bosch visiting the Dominican Republic?

The reigning Miss Universe is expected to participate in official activities surrounding the Miss Dominican Republic 2026 pageant as part of her international schedule. 

When is Miss Dominican Republic 2026?

The national pageant is scheduled for July 30, 2026, when the Dominican Republic will crown its representative for Miss Universe 2026. 

Who is Fátima Bosch?

Fátima Bosch is Miss Universe 2025, representing Mexico. Since winning the crown, she has traveled internationally promoting the Miss Universe Organization and attending official events. 

Where will Miss Universe 2026 be held?

Miss Universe 2026 is scheduled to take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where Fátima Bosch will crown her successor during the 75th edition of the competition.