Miss Grand International Public Company Limited (MGI) has demanded that organizers of Miss Universe Laos 2026 immediately stop all activities, saying they lack permission to hold the pageant or use the Miss Universe trademarks.
In a statement, MGI and Miss Universe Eastern Pte. Ltd. said they had not authorized the 2026 competition or granted permission to use the trademarks “MISS UNIVERSE®” and “MISS UNIVERSE LAOS℠.”
The organizers are not permitted to accept contestant applications or sell sponsorship rights without a formal sub-license agreement with MGI that meets its requirements.
Miss Grand International said it had tried to contact the organizers but received no response. Without a valid agreement, the pageant cannot operate, and its winners, titles, crowns, and results will not be recognized by the company.
The group also warned that it may pursue civil and criminal legal action against individuals or organizations that knowingly participate in or support the unauthorized event.
Warning to Contestants and Partners
MGI advised contestants, their families, supporters, business partners, venue hosts, and media organizations to exercise caution before signing agreements or making payments related to the pageant.
It said it would not accept responsibility for losses or damages arising from transactions with unauthorized individuals or organizations.
Wider Franchise Dispute
The dispute comes amid wider disagreements over Miss Universe franchise rights. In September, the Miss Universe Organization said Miss Universe Eastern Pte. Ltd. lacks authority to grant licenses or operational rights for the brand, raising questions over national pageants, including Laos.
MGI later said representatives from Laos and five other Southeast Asian countries would not travel to the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico. It emphasized that their absence did not constitute a voluntary withdrawal from its franchise arrangements.
