By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The organisers of Miss World 2021 have announced that the grand finale, scheduled for today in Puerto Rico, has been postponed due to health and safety concerns of contestants, staff, crew and the general public.
“Miss World 2021 temporarily postpones global broadcast finale in Puerto Rico due to health and safety interest of contestants, staff, crew and general public,” said the official press statement, confirming “additional positive cases” ahead of the coronation night.
“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.”
“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,” it said.
According to the lengthy statement, the finale would be rescheduled at Puerto Rico Coliseum Jose Miguel Agrelot within the next 90 days.
Once cleared by health officials, following observation and further testing, contestants and staff will return to their home countries.
“We are very much looking forward to the return of our contestants, (who we have grown to know and love), to compete for the Miss World crown” said Julia Morley, CEO of Miss World Ltd.
Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida has been flying the country’s flag high ahead of coronation night, participating in preliminary competitions, interviews and earning a spot in the Beauty With A Purpose top 10.
The current Miss World is Toni-Ann Singh of Jamaica. The island’s representative at the 70th Miss World Final in Puerto Rico is Khalia Hall.