Miss World 2021 finale has been temporarily postponed after several contestants tested positive for Covid. The announcement was made just hours before the event was scheduled to start.
The decision was taken after 17 contestants and staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Among those infected is Manasa Varanasi, who was crowned Miss India World 2020, and will represent India at the international beauty pageant.
The contestants are currently in isolation in Puerto Rico, where the finale was scheduled to take place.
“Keeping in mind the rising Covid cases amongst the contestants, the Miss World Organisation has taken the decision to postpone the Miss World finale,” said an official statement.
The finale will be rescheduled at Puerto Rico Coliseum Jose Miguel Agrelot within the next 90 days
“SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – After meeting with the virologists and medical experts hired to oversee the Miss World 2021 event and discussing with the Puerto Rico Health Department, the decision has been made by the organizers of the event to postpone the globally broadcast finale at the Puerto RicoColiseum Jose Miguel Agrelot to be held within the next 90 days†reads the post shared by Miss World official Instagram page.
“As of yesterday, additional safety measures were implemented in the best interest of the contestants, production team and spectators, understanding the event increased risks on the stage and in the dressing room. However, after additional positive cases were confirmed this morning after consulting with health officials and experts, the postponement decision was made†the post reads.
“Once and only when contestants and staff are cleared by health officials and advisors, will contestants and related staff return to their home countriesâ€.