The Miss Universe 2021 pageant is fast approaching, and every contestant is excited about the big event. However, not everyone is enthusiastic because some countries can’t participate due to the current Omicron variant threat.
Indonesia announced that it wouldn’t send a contestant to represent the country in the coming Miss Universe 2021 pageant. According to the Puteri Indonesia Foundation, their decision was because of the rigid preparation period and local Covid-19 guidelines.
“We look forward to participating again in next year’s edition of the Miss Universe Pageant. The Puteri Indonesia Foundation wishes the 70th Miss Universe Competition and all the delegates great success. May the best candidate win the coveted title and continue to inspire all women in their communities,” the foundation said.
France’s Bet Tested Positive for Covid-19 Virus
Nearly two weeks before the Miss Universe 2021 coronation night, Miss Universe France 2021 Clemence Botino disclosed on Instagram the sad news. She was tested positive for the Coronavirus upon arrival at Israel airport and was brought to a government-run
isolation hotel. Ironically, she had completed vaccination and test before leaving her home country.
Israel began closing its borders to prevent foreigners from entering the country last week. However, there’s an exception to the case that needs a special committee’s approval. Additionally, the move is to hold back the Omicron variant but will still host the Miss Universe 2021 pageant.
Many candidates felt startled because of the Israeli government’s announcement. Some candidates have already arrived in the country, while others are still bound to the Middle East country. Miss Philippines Beatrice Luigi Gomez flew to Israel on November 27 to compete in the prestigious pageant.
The Miss Universe pageant management sent the contestant an email on November 28. A section of it states that:
“We are aware of the recent announcement by the Israeli Ministry of Health regarding
foreigners who travel to Israel as part of an effort to stem the spread of the Omicron
variant. We wanted to make you aware that as of this early morning in Israel, it is our
understanding that the Miss Universe even will be permitted to go forward as planned.”
The Show Must Go On for the Miss Universe 2021 Pageant
A new virus is circulating worldwide, and a Miss Universe 2021 contestant is a Covid-19 positive. Despite all of this, Tourism Minister Yoel Razvozov said that everything would go ahead as planned to celebrate the pageant’s 70th anniversary. Participants will have their PCR test every 48 hours to ensure they are Covid-free.
Morocco and the United Arab Emirates will send a representative this year. Bahrain will send its first contestant, a fashion design student. The Miss Universe 2021 will hold its grand coronation night on December 12 (Sunday) at the Red Sea resort of Eilat in Israel.
Image Source: Rated Korina
