María Alejandra López Pérez crowned Miss Universe Colombia 2026

María Alejandra López Pérez, representing Risaralda, was crowned Miss Universe Colombia 2026 during a gala held on October 10 at the Country Club in Barranquilla. The 32-year-old industrial engineer and model secured the title after a final competition between five finalists, ultimately winning against the representative from Medellín.

López Pérez will represent Colombia in the 75th edition of the Miss Universe pageant, scheduled for November 24 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She brings extensive experience to the role, having participated in various national and international beauty competitions since 2013, including Miss World Colombia and Miss Grand International.

Following her coronation, the event drew attention due to the absence of outgoing queen Vanessa Pulgarín, who was unable to hand over the crown. Pulgarín, currently in Thailand, cited scheduling conflicts and a lack of clear communication from the organization regarding her return to Colombia.