Miss Universe disqualifies six Asian countries amid internal dispute

The Miss Universe Organization is facing a major internal conflict that has resulted in the disqualification of representatives from six Southeast Asian countries: Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, and Singapore. JKN Universe LLC, a co-owner of the brand, announced that these delegates are ineligible for the 75th anniversary competition scheduled for November 2026 in Puerto Rico.

The organization claims the disqualification stems from “illegitimate” franchise agreements involving Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil. JKN Universe LLC asserts that the contracts were managed through unauthorized entities and that Itsaragrisil has engaged in “reputational aggression” by spreading false financial information regarding the $8.7 million public funds allocated for the event in Puerto Rico.

In response, Miss Universe Eastern, which is co-owned by the same parent company, has rejected the decision. Its leadership maintains that the franchise agreements are valid and that the six countries retain their right to participate. The dispute involves a power struggle between the organization's Western and Eastern divisions over who holds the authority to grant and manage franchise rights. Legal action in the United States may follow if the impasse is not resolved.