Ariana Aray addresses removal from Miss Universe Ecuador

Ariana Aray, the representative for Santa Elena in Miss Universe Ecuador 2026, has addressed her sudden removal from the competition. Aray clarified that her exit was not related to the winner, Dalia Bucaram, despite public confusion.

Aray stated that her withdrawal followed a medical indisposition starting on August 10. She alleged that the Concurso Nacional de Belleza (CNB) Ecuador did not agree with her condition or the steps she took while unwell. Additionally, Aray claimed her family raised concerns regarding irregularities and a lack of response from the organization concerning the management of her image and a specific photograph published by the pageant.