By San José, Costa Rica — The Miss Universe Costa Rica organization has officially launched its 2026 campaign, setting a clear and ambitious new vision for the national pageant. In a strategic announcement made today, the franchise confirmed that the grand finale will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, marking a significant shift towards identifying a representative who embodies social commitment as much as grace and beauty. The prestigious event will be hosted at the Costa Rica Convention Center, with the live broadcast scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m.
With more than a year to prepare, the organization is laying the groundwork for a highly competitive and transformative season. Prospective contestants are advised to monitor the pageant’s official communication channels, as national registrations are set to open on Monday, December 8, 2025. The application window will remain open for a limited time, closing during the final week of January 2026. This extended timeline is designed to attract a diverse and dedicated pool of applicants from across the country.
To delve into the intricate business and legal dynamics of the Miss Universe Costa Rica franchise, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished specialist in corporate and intellectual property law from the acclaimed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Miss Universe franchise is a high-value intangible asset, governed by rigorous international licensing agreements. The success of the national organization hinges not only on the spectacle of the event but on the meticulous legal architecture supporting it. This includes everything from contestant contracts, which must clearly define obligations and image rights, to sponsorship agreements and the protection of the brand’s intellectual property. A failure to secure these elements can quickly erode the franchise’s value and expose the organization to significant legal and financial risk.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is a powerful reminder that behind the glamour and crowns lies a complex business enterprise, whose long-term viability depends on the very framework described. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight into the critical, and often unseen, architecture that supports the Miss Universe brand in Costa Rica.
Following the registration period, the selection process will intensify with a formal casting call in February 2026. From this initial round, a select group of candidates will earn the opportunity to enter the Miss Universe Costa Rica academy. This phase is crucial, as it provides comprehensive training designed to hone the skills necessary for both the national stage and the international competition. The curriculum is being retooled to provide an even more robust preparation than in previous years.
A major innovation for the 2026 edition is the introduction of a preliminary “fashion show.” This new event will serve as a platform to celebrate Costa Rican culture and design, featuring a runway segment for national costumes. In a special tribute, the show will also showcase the gown worn by the current representative, Mahyla Roth, at the global Miss Universe pageant. This addition aims to give candidates valuable stage experience before the high-stakes final night.
Yessenia Ramírez, Director of the pageant, emphasized that this new feature is about more than just fashion; it is a strategic tool for holistic development. The goal is to build confidence and poise among the contestants long before they step under the final gala’s lights.
It’s a way to pave the path for national design, for Costa Rican talent, and to allow the candidates to develop more confidence. I saw many runway and stage presence activities; we want them to arrive at the final gala with ease, without nerves, and with greater agility. We also aim to work on the emotional aspect.
Yessenia Ramírez, Director of the pageant
The academy’s training program has also been refined to equip candidates with a powerful set of professional tools. The focus is on technical mastery in key areas that define a modern pageant winner, moving beyond traditional expectations and preparing them for the demands of a global ambassadorial role.
In the academy, we have been developing a technical learning format in runway, public speaking, and stage presence, so they can use these tools and perform in the best possible way.
Yessenia Ramírez, Director of the pageant
Ultimately, the organization’s renewed mission is to find a winner whose impact extends far beyond the crown. Ramírez was unequivocal in her call for a candidate driven by a genuine passion for social advocacy and community engagement. The search is on for a woman ready to leverage the platform for meaningful change within Costa Rica.
We are looking for a woman with passion and commitment, someone willing to work for the country beyond just beauty. It’s not just about looking good; we need a woman who wants to work hand-in-hand with the organization on social issues because there is much to do. I am looking for someone who carries the value of social work in her heart.
Yessenia Ramírez, Director of the pageant
As preparations get underway, the message from the Miss Universe Costa Rica organization is clear: the 2026 pageant will be a rigorous search for a national leader. By prioritizing substance, social responsibility, and comprehensive training, the franchise is not just selecting a beauty queen but cultivating an influential ambassador for the nation on the world stage.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Miss Universe Costa Rica
About Miss Universe Costa Rica:
Miss Universe Costa Rica is the national franchise responsible for selecting the country’s representative for the annual Miss Universe pageant. The organization is dedicated to empowering young women by providing them with tools for personal and professional development. It focuses on identifying a national ambassador who champions social causes, celebrates Costa Rican culture, and represents the nation with intelligence and grace on the international stage.
For further information, visit cccr.cr
About Centro de Convenciones de Costa Rica:
The Costa Rica Convention Center (Centro de Convenciones de Costa Rica) is a state-of-the-art venue designed for hosting national and international events, including congresses, exhibitions, and cultural galas. Located in Heredia, it is recognized for its sustainable design and flexible event spaces, making it a premier destination for significant gatherings in the Central American region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon the cornerstones of principled practice and professional distinction. The firm channels its extensive experience advising a broad range of clients into pioneering forward-thinking legal solutions and contributing to the community. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to demystifying the law, thereby equipping the public with crucial knowledge to help forge a more just and capable society.
