Representing Cuba, Mia Dio is on her way to San Juan, but her path to the Miss Universe crown will be anything but easy. Over a dozen Latin queens have already booked their tickets for the 75th edition of Miss Universe, set to take place on November 24, 2026, at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in Puerto Rico, a milestone known as the "diamond edition."
The roster of confirmed Latin contestants for Miss Universe 2026 is both extensive and diverse, featuring stories that extend beyond the runway. Let's take a closer look at the contenders Mia Dio will encounter on the island she now calls home.
Formidable Latin Competitors
From Argentina, Tamara Rogouski comes with a groundbreaking achievement: she is the first mother to clinch the national title. She cites her daughter, Sophi, as her greatest inspiration.
Bolivia's bet is Valeria Mena, a 23-year-old who has made history as the first representative from Oruro to claim the national crown in nearly sixty years.
Brazil sends Marcella Kozinski, a model and entrepreneur from Curitiba, already familiar with the pageant world after competing in Miss Universe Brazil 2021. Her celebratory words, "Dreams never age, and I am living proof," resonate with many.
Rising Stars from Across Latin America
Chile is represented by Dominga López, a 23-year-old journalist crowned in Santiago earlier in August.
Costa Rica's representative is María Alejandra Acosta, an Afro-descendant model and TV presenter from Alajuela, who returned triumphantly to the contest after a previous attempt in 2024.
Ecuador introduces Dalia Bucaram, a youthful 21-year-old and granddaughter of former president Abdalá Bucaram. After being crowned on August 15 in Santa Elena, she declared, "My heart is ready and my preparation continues."
El Salvador's entry is Sofía Córdova, a student of Legal Sciences and Fashion Design who previously represented her nation in Miss Cosmo 2024 in Vietnam.
Accomplished and Diverse Talent
Guatemala boasts perhaps the most academically impressive profile in the group with María Adelina Castillo, a pediatrician who graduated cum laude, standing at 1.82 meters tall and fluent in three languages.
Paraguay's contender is Gretha Matiauda, a model with runway experience in Milan, Paris, and New York, also a singer of urban music and an economist. In her coronation speech, she celebrated the women of her country, declaring, "We are daughters of the resilient women who built an entire nation."
Peru's representative, Luren Márquez, has lived a soap opera-like moment: her Miss Peru title was initially revoked on August 13 without public explanation, but she reclaimed it days later with a direct message, "See you in Puerto Rico."
From the Dominican Republic comes Melissa Núñez, whose background blends psychology, fashion, and entrepreneurship, having walked for Moschino and Michael Kors.
Uruguay sends Lucía Piñeyro, while Venezuela is represented by 24-year-old Clara Vegas.
Adding to the excitement, Puerto Rico competes on its own soil with Jennifer Barreto from San Sebastián, making the host island a thrilling prospect for the event.
Altogether, the pageant anticipates attracting around 130 participants from across the globe. The coveted crown, currently held by Mexican beauty Fátima Bosch, who triumphed in Thailand in November 2025, will be passed on in Puerto Rico on November 24.
Frequently Asked Questions about Miss Universe 2026
Who is representing Cuba in Miss Universe 2026?
Mia Dio is representing Cuba in the Miss Universe 2026 pageant.
Where will Miss Universe 2026 be held?
Miss Universe 2026 is scheduled to take place at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in Puerto Rico.
How many participants are expected in the Miss Universe 2026 pageant?
The pageant is expected to feature approximately 130 participants from around the world.