Miss Universe Breaks Records With More Candidates, Countries, and Historic Changes

In Spanish

This year's Miss Universe pageant promises to be unforgettable, not just because it returns to Mexico City after 17 years, but also because it will feature more contestants, debuting countries, and rule changes.

Here's a look at the most anticipated highlights of Miss Universe 2024.

130 Contestants Competing for the Crown on November 16

This year features a historic number of some 130 contestants (though slightly fewer as Miss Panama was expelled) from around the world competing at Arena Ciudad de México, making this year the most culturally and nationally diverse in the pageant's history. The previous record was set in 2018 with 94 delegates.

For the organization, this record reflects inclusion and the global popularity of the event. Notably, several contestants, including those from Brazil, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela, are mothers or engaged, a milestone recently made possible with changes to pageant rules.

Debuting and Returning Countries: A New Level of Global Diversity

This year includes first-time participants from countries such as Belarus, the UAE, Eritrea, Guinea, Iran, Macau, the Maldives, Somalia, and Uzbekistan, each bringing their unique cultures and styles.

Additionally, nations like Armenia, Bangladesh, Belize, Botswana, Cuba (absent since 1967), Fiji, Israel, Turkey, and Zambia are returning as well, ensuring a competition infused with diversity.

Rule Changes: Farewell to the Age Limit!

This year, Miss Universe has retired its long-standing age limit. Previously, only women between 18 and 28 could compete, but now the contest is open to all women over 18, regardless of age. Exemplifying this change, Beatrice Njoya from Malta, 40, a mother of three, and Puerto Rico's Jennifer Colón, 36, also a mother of three, are challenging old standards and showing that the runway is for all.

New Competition Structure, More Semifinalists, and Continental Titles

The competition format also brings interesting changes. In the preliminary round, contestants will be evaluated in swimwear and private interviews to select 30 semifinalists, a record number for the pageant. From these, only 12 will advance to the evening gown round, and just five will reach the Q&A stage. Additionally, each continent will have its own "continental queen," adding a touch of regional pride to the event.

The lucky winner will receive this year's new crown, revealed by current Miss Universe Sheynnis Palacios. Called ' Butterfly,' the new crown symbolizes the transformation and beauty of the monarch butterfly.

Significant Investment and Global Broadcast

While the official investment figure remains undisclosed, this edition is among the highest-budgeted. The event's production at Arena Ciudad de México and the logistics to host over 130 contestants from around the globe are substantial. In the U.S., it will stream exclusively on Roku, while Mexico will broadcast it on TV Azteca, with Telemundo and USA Network covering it for the U.S. Hispanic audience, ensuring millions can enjoy the event live.

Miss Universe Facts and Figures

Countries with the most titles:

1. The U.S. leads with 9 crowns. From their first victory in 1954 to their last in 2022, they've been a force to be reckoned with.
2. Venezuela follows with 7 titles. Their first win came in 1979 and their last was in 2013.
3. Puerto Rico is a close third with 5, demonstrating the beauty and charisma that Puerto Ricans have.
4. The Philippines has 4 establishing itself among the Miss Universe elite.

Fifth place for the country with the most titles is a five-way tie between:

1. India, who won in 1994, 2000, and 2021
2. Mexico in 1991, 2010, and 2020
3. Sweden in 1955, 1966, 1984
4. South Africa in 1978, 2017, and 2019

Finals Night

TV icon Mario Lopez, known for his role as A.C. Slater in 'Saved by the Bell,' will host the grand event, bringing his extensive pageant experience to keep audiences engaged.

Miss Universe 2024 is set to be a groundbreaking edition, celebrating diversity, female empowerment, and global inclusion. Don't miss this historic event on November 16 – a night that promises to be much more than just physical beauty, as it honors diversity, inclusion, and international talent.