Southeast Asian countries continue selecting Miss Universe candidates despite uncertainty about whether the Miss Universe brand could face a ban, according to reporting referencing the ongoing dispute over franchise rights.
Both outlets say the situation centers on conflicting statements from the Miss Universe brand’s two ownership groups about who holds the franchise rights and which contestants are eligible. The disagreement creates uncertainty for organizers and national pageant committees as they move forward with candidate screening and selections.
The accounts emphasize that, even with the potential for disruption, participating countries are proceeding with preparations. They also highlight that the conflicting claims relate to authority over franchises and eligibility standards, leaving the final impact on upcoming participation unclear. Neither outlet provides a resolution in the information summarized, focusing instead on the fact that candidate selection is still underway while the ownership dispute continues.
