Contestants from around the world are arriving in Puerto Rico as preparations begin for Miss Universe 2026, with Greece’s representative Olivia Vasilopoulos among the delegates preparing to compete for the international crown.
The 75th edition of the pageant, billed as the Diamond anniversary competition, will take place in San Juan, where the grand finale is scheduled for November 24.
Contestants began arriving on November 8 ahead of an official welcome ceremony on November 11 at Aguadilla Bay. The island is hosting delegates representing countries and territories from across the world as the competition enters its final preparations.
Vasilopoulos has expressed her excitement at representing Greece, sharing a message from Puerto Rico ahead of the competition.
“It still feels surreal to be here, representing my beautiful Greece at Miss Universe,” she said.
Her participation places Greece among the international delegations competing in this year’s anniversary edition.
Greece among international contestants
Delegates arriving in Puerto Rico include representatives from Australia, India, Colombia, Ukraine, Israel, New Zealand, the Philippines, Pakistan, Denmark and numerous other countries.
Australia’s representative, Caity Worthington, reflected on the journey leading up to the competition before departing, describing the experience as a period of personal growth, emotional moments and new challenges.
Puerto Rico’s own representative, Jennifer Barreto, will compete on home soil, with the host territory hoping to secure another Miss Universe title.
The contestants will take part in a series of official events during pageant week, giving them opportunities to present their national identities, prepare for the judging stages and meet fellow delegates.
Miss Universe 2026: Key dates
The National Costume Show is scheduled for November 21, when contestants will present designs inspired by their countries’ cultures, traditions and national identities.
The Preliminary Competition will follow on November 22, featuring appearances in swimwear and evening gowns. Contestants will be hoping to secure places in the semifinals ahead of the final.
The Miss Universe 2026 grand finale will take place on November 24 at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan.
Around 120 delegates are expected to compete for the crown, with the winner succeeding reigning Miss Universe Fátima Bosch.
For Greece, attention will be on Olivia Vasilopoulos as she takes the international stage and represents the country in the pageant’s 75th anniversary edition.
