Jasmine Blandford wins Miss Universe 2026 special recognition

Jasmine Blandford, representing Nicaragua, has won “La Gran Despedida,” a special recognition created by the Miss Universe Organization for the Miss Universe 2026 competition. An internal committee selected Nicaragua from ten finalists based on the planning, originality, and reach of fan-organized activities.

Blandford’s supporters organized several events, including a farewell gala in Miami and a gathering at Fort Lauderdale airport. In Puerto Rico, fans hosted a visit to the Roberto Clemente monument in Carolina and a cultural celebration in Cayey featuring music and traditional Nicaraguan elements like a “gigantona.”

The award consists of a private dinner for Blandford, her family, and her team. The organization clarified that this recognition is independent of the official competition and does not influence jury scores or the selection of the successor to Fátima Bosch. The Miss Universe 2026 final is scheduled for November 24 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.