After a night filled with nerves and excitement, Lina Luaces, the daughter of Lili Estefan, was crowned Miss Universe Cuba 2025 at Milander Park in Hialeah, Florida. The 22-year-old will represent Cuba at the 74th Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to take place this November in Thailand. Lina, who smiled throughout the event, received the crown from her predecessor, Marianela Ancheta, amidst applause and cheers from the audience.
The excitement grew for Lina's family and fans, who first saw her walk in a swimsuit and evening gown. Then, she was chosen for the Top 10, moved on to the final five, and was ultimately crowned the new Miss Cuba. During the competition, Lina was also honored with the Miss Press award.
Meanwhile, Vanessa Villareal placed third, and Lisbeth Fernández was named first runner-up. Alongside the contestants, the three finalists answered the judges' questions in an event hosted by Carlos Adyan, Tenay Rodríguez, and Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Lina walked the runway to meet the audience who had been watching the awards ceremony from the start. The new queen, still in disbelief over her win, smiled at the crowd while seemingly searching among them for her mother and family to share the victory.
On the Road to Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand
With her recent victory, Lina Luaces earned the prestigious title of Miss Cuba, making her eligible to compete in Miss Universe 2025. She has etched her name into Cuba's history in the pageant. This milestone is particularly significant as it marks a resurgence for the island in the international beauty scene. After a lengthy absence of 57 years without a representative, Cuba returned to the competition in 2024 with Marianela Ancheta. Now, Lina stands as the second queen to proudly hold this title in this revitalized era for Cuban representation on the global stage.
As she prepares for the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, Lina Luaces joins a distinguished group of Latina contestants who their respective countries have already selected to compete in this highly anticipated event set to take place in Thailand. Among her fellow contestants are Aldana Masset from Argentina, Maria Gabriela Lacerda representing Brazil, Yessica Hausermann of Bolivia, Mirna Alejandra Caballini from Panama, Karla Bacigalupo of Peru, and Stephany Abasali of Venezuela.
Together, these remarkable women embody their nations' vibrant spirit and diverse culture as they prepare to showcase their talents and grace on an international platform.