The Miss Universe Organization has quashed rumors circulating on social media regarding Saudi Arabia’s participation in this year’s pageant, asserting that no selection process has taken place in the kingdom.
In an official statement released on Monday, the organization stated, “We would like to categorically state that no selection process has been conducted in Saudi Arabia, and any such claims are false and misleading.”
The clarification follows after Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani’s social media post claimed her representation of the kingdom in the prestigious pageant. The post, accompanied by photos of Alqahtani holding the Saudi flag and wearing a Miss Universe sash, quickly gained traction. If confirmed, Alqahtani would have been the first Saudi woman to compete for the crown.
Miss Universe emphasized the rigorous selection process each country undergoes, ensuring fairness and transparency.
“Each country’s selection is carried out in accordance with established criteria and regulations,” the organization stated. It further disclosed that Saudi Arabia is not yet listed among the over 100 countries participating in this year’s pageant in Mexico.
Nevertheless, Miss Universe revealed that Saudi Arabia is undergoing a meticulous vetting process to potentially award the franchise. However, the kingdom will not be able to participate until the process is finalized and confirmed by the approval committee.
“Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our prestigious pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee,” the organization affirmed.