India, May 29 -- The controversies surrounding Miss Universe seem far from over. Ahead of the 2026 edition of the global beauty pageant, scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico this November, the Miss France Organisation has officially announced that it will not participate in the competition. (Also read: Miss Grand International All Stars contestants win hearts as they walk make-up free during a pageant round: 'So cool' )

In an official statement released on May 28, the organisation confirmed its withdrawal from the upcoming edition, citing concerns over the changing direction of the international pageant. According to the statement, the decision was taken to remain "faithful to the identity, commitments and values of the Miss France pag...