Beauty pageant winners crowned across Latin America and Caribbean

Several international beauty pageant winners have been crowned ahead of the Miss Universe 2026 competition in Puerto Rico.

In the Dominican Republic, Suny Gálvez was named Miss Universal Grand 2026 following a final held in Santo Domingo. Gálvez, who has a long history in pageantry, won through various stages including swimsuit, evening gown, and question rounds.

In Mexico, María Vargas has been crowned Miss Universe Mexico 2026. Vargas has addressed recent social media attention regarding AI-manipulated images and is currently working on a second book while preparing for the international final in November.

Other regional winners include Jasmine Chola, who was crowned Miss Universe Nicaragua 2026 in a gala held in Miami, and Gabriela Lineth González, who was named Miss Universe Panama 2026. González expressed her commitment to representing Panama despite facing some public criticism regarding her victory.