After the intense controversy and allegations of fraud in Miss Universe 2025, there is now talk that the Philippines may not participate in the next edition, while Miss France has officially withdrawn from Miss Universe 2026—will the credibility of the prestigious pageant be damaged?

Miss Universe has long been considered one of the biggest beauty pageants in the world. But now, in 2025, the prestigious competition has been shrouded in controversy, causing concern among participating countries. Amid allegations of fraud, the resignation of several judges, and conflicts of interest, shocking news has emerged: the Miss France organization has decided to withdraw from Miss Universe 2026.

Frédéric Gilbert, president of the Miss France company, said the organization was on “absolute alert” after the chaotic edition of Miss Universe 2025. The coronation of Mexico’s Fatima Bosch as the new Miss Universe was immediately followed by allegations of fraud and unfair processes. Several judges resigned, and reports of deep conflicts of interest emerged, casting serious doubts on the integrity of the competition.

Miss France’s decision to withdraw is a strong statement against the Miss Universe leadership. For their part, it is clear that they are not willing to participate in a competition that cannot provide a clear explanation for the allegations of anomalies. Their withdrawal sent shock waves throughout the pageant community, especially since France is one of the countries with a long history in Miss Universe.

But it’s not just France that’s being talked about. On social media, news is spreading that the Philippines may also not participate in Miss Universe 2026. The Philippines, known as one of the powerhouses in pageantry, has deep connections with Miss Universe. Their candidates often become crowd favorites and have been crowned Miss Universe several times. If these rumors are true, it will be a major blow to the credibility of the competition.

Netizens are divided on the reaction. Some say that Miss France and possibly the Philippines did the right thing, as allegations of fraud should not be ignored. Others believe that Miss Universe should remain open and give candidates the opportunity to showcase their beauty, talent, and advocacy, despite the controversies.

On a deeper level, this incident highlights the importance of transparency and integrity in international competitions. Miss Universe is not just about beauty; it is a symbol of culture, unity, and women’s empowerment. When its integrity is tarnished, it loses the trust of participating countries and millions of viewers around the world.

If France and the Philippines are eliminated from Miss Universe 2026, the excitement and prestige of the competition will definitely be diminished. These two countries have a deep history of pageantry and a large fanbase that always supports their candidates. Their absence is not only a loss of beautiful candidates, but also a loss of the culture and history that they bring to the stage.

For now, the big question remains how the Miss Universe leadership will respond to the allegations of fraud. Will they provide a clear explanation? Will there be reform in the judging and management system? Or will the participating countries completely lose their trust?

One thing is certain: Miss Universe 2025 left a deep scar on the competition’s reputation. And as Miss Universe 2026 approaches, the world is watching and waiting to see how the pageant will regain the trust of the people.

Ultimately, Miss France’s decision to withdraw and the possibility that the Philippines will not participate either serve as a reminder that integrity is more important than prestige. Miss Universe needs to demonstrate clear change if it wants to remain relevant and respected in the eyes of the world.