After weeks of excitement, anticipation, and a few controversies, the moment the world has been waiting for has finally arrived. The 74th edition of Miss Universe is underway, and only one of the 130 contestants will be crowned the most beautiful woman in the world, succeeding Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig.
All eyes are on the stage of Impact Arena in Pak Kret, Thailand, where the finalists have showcased their poise, intelligence, and glamour. The preliminary rounds included private interviews with judges as well as the official swimsuit, national costume, and evening gown presentations.
© LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHAThese performances set the stage for the Top 30 semifinalists, a milestone that narrows the competition to those who have impressed the judges most.
© Ahtisa Manalo/IGAmong those who made it to the Top 30 are Miss Universe Colombia, Venessa Pulgarin, Miss Universe Cuba, Lina Luaces, Miss Universe Dominican Republic, Jennifer Ventura, and Miss Universe Brazil, Maria Gabriela Lacerda.
© Olivia Yacé/IGFrom here, the competition will tighten further with the announcement of the Top 12 and, ultimately, the Top 5 finalists. In the final round, these five women will face questions live on stage before the judges and audience, a critical moment that often determines the ultimate winner.
© Praveenar Singh/IGThe crowning moment will see Victoria Kjær Theilvig place the prestigious Lumière de l'Infini crown, handcrafted by Filipino artisans using traditional Place Vendôme techniques, on the head of the new Miss Universe.
© @missuniverse.mexico / @jorgeferraezFans can look forward to the next chapter of the pageant. Miss Universe 2026 will be hosted by Puerto Rico at the iconic José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum, marking the 75th Diamond Anniversary of the competition.
Top 5:
- Thailand – Praveenar Singh
- Philippines – Ahtisa Manalo
- Venezuela – Stephany Abasali
- Mexico – Fátima Bosch
- Côte d'Ivoire – Olivia Yacé
© Hector Vivas
