Puerto Rico to host Miss Universe 75th anniversary in 2026
Puerto Rico will again host the Miss Universe pageant, with the global event set for November 2026 at the Puerto Rico Coliseum in San Juan. The contest, which will mark its 75th anniversary, is projected to generate between $80 million and $200 million in economic impact, supported by a $9 million public investment.
The island last hosted the international competition in 2001 and 2002, with the latter held in Bayamón and San Juan. Puerto Rico has produced five Miss Universe winners: Marisol Malaret in 1970, Deborah Carthy-Deu in 1985, Dayanara Torres in 1993, Denisse Quiñones in 2001 and Zuleyka Rivera in 2006. Quiñones won her crown at home.
At a news conference, Gov. Jenniffer González emphasized the pageant’s global reach. “Over 400 million viewers are estimated to watch the pageant in more than 160 countries,” she said. “Puerto Ricans believe in their [beauty] queens, and we have proven that we can do it better.”
She said the $9 million government investment will be split into $4.5 million this fiscal year and $5 million the next. Beyond international exposure, the event is expected to generate more than 45,000 hotel stays — valued at $13.5 million — and provide business for hotels, restaurants, logistics and entertainment companies. Some 700 temporary jobs and 400 indirect jobs are projected.
Comparing Puerto Rico’s expectations with other recent hosts, González noted that El Salvador reported a $177 million impact in 2023, while Mexico registered $250 million in 2024. “We are going to do it better because it’s the 75th anniversary, with strong private support and sponsorship,” she said.
Miss Universe’s technical team will be based on the island for two months before the event, contributing further to hotel demand. Local talent will also be enlisted for production.
Ronald Day, chief executive of Miss Universe, said Puerto Rico was chosen over four other countries. “Puerto Rico has something special,” he said. “For the first time in history, we are announcing the location of the pageant a year in advance.”
Puerto Rico Tourism Co. Executive Director Willianette Robles welcomed the announcement, noting that after 23 years, the event is “returning home.”
“Without a doubt, our island has so much to offer,” she said.
