On the afternoon of October 8, Miss Grand Costa Rica Macarena Chamberlain announced her withdrawal from the Miss Grand International 2024 competition.

She shared: “In the past few hours, my mental and physical health has been severely impacted due to last-minute changes from the organizers. While I understand and appreciate the pageant’s efforts to improve the contestants' experience, it has been difficult to adapt to the current situation, and I have to prioritize my health.”

Macarena expressed deep gratitude to her friends and family, who have been a strong source of support throughout her journey. She emphasized that this is not the end but rather the beginning of new projects. She hopes that people will continue to accompany and support her in her upcoming musical endeavors.

Macarena, 20, stands 1.7 meters tall and is currently a model, singer, and songwriter. She was crowned Miss Grand Costa Rica 2024 in August this year.

Previously, Cambodia's representative, Sotheary By, also announced that she would no longer continue competing in Miss Grand International 2024. She shared that while there were many issues behind her decision, the Cambodian organizers had done their best to welcome and care for the contestants.

She expressed happiness at meeting amazing contestants from around the world and sent her love to all. However, she also expressed sadness at having to say goodbye early.

Conflicts between the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI) and Miss Grand Cambodia erupted on the evening of October 6, surprising many fans. Only a few days into the competition, Miss Grand International 2024 in Cambodia faced trouble as both parties issued statements revealing a breakdown in cooperation.

Upon returning from Cambodia, on the evening of October 7, Mr. Nawat, President of Miss Grand International, livestreamed his criticism of the competition's organization in Cambodia, which led to the event being relocated to Thailand.

Mr. Nawat shared that upon arriving in Cambodia, he sensed instability as there were no local staff to welcome the MGI team or the contestants. On sash day, the red carpet and Lamborghini arrangements did not meet expectations, and he had to personally push to get a backdrop for contestants to take photos.

During the welcome ceremony, despite the announcement that 400 fans and important guests would attend, only about 40 people showed up, and the key guests did not arrive on time. At the gala dinner, a traditional dance performance was canceled because the dance troupe arrived late and was unprepared.

Mr. Nawat also revealed that the cost of flying the contestants back to Thailand was about 1 million baht (over 740 million VND), and hotel expenses totaled around 200,000 baht (nearly 150 million VND). These costs were covered by MGI to protect the reputation and prestige of the Miss Grand International brand.

After arriving in Thailand from Cambodia on the evening of October 7, today the contestants had the opportunity to tour Bangkok. They visited Wat Arun, one of Thailand’s most famous temples, and enjoyed a shopping experience at the Icon Siam mall. In the evening, they will dine on the luxurious Meridian Cruise.

Miss Grand International 2024 is taking place from October 3-25. In addition to the semifinals and final night, contestants from around the world will participate in a variety of sub-competitions such as private interviews, swimsuit presentations, national costume showcases, fashion shows, and talent competitions.

Representing Vietnam at this year’s competition is Vo Le Que Anh, Miss Grand Vietnam 2024. Born in 2001, Que Anh hails from Quang Nam.

Before participating in Miss Grand Vietnam 2024, she was the runner-up in the 2020 Hue University Beauty Contest, made it into the Top 40 of Miss Vietnam 2020, and was crowned 1st Runner-Up at Miss Tourism Da Nang 2022. She graduated with a degree in Korean Language and Culture from Hue University.

Minh Khoi