New Zealand's franchise for Miss Universe dropped by Yugen PR
Dubai-based Yugen PR no longer holds the franchise for Miss Universe New Zealand 2024 according to an official statement released online today.
The statement said: "As a result of our team's non-compliance with a specific order from the Miss Universe Organization, we have decided to cancel the franchise held by Yugen PR for Miss Universe New Zealand for 2024."
Kiwi-Filipina actress Franki Russell was initially named as New Zealand's representative for the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, but now her national title has been taken off her official social media bio.
Because of this unexpected twist, it's still uncertain if New Zealand will be represented at the 73rd Miss Universe to be held in Mexico this November.
New Zealand was expected to return to the international pageant after 4 years. Its last participation was in 2019 with Diamond Langi.
Photo: Miss Universe New Zealand