Peruvian model Luren Márquez has regained her title as Miss Peru 2026 hours after being stripped of her crown by pageant director Jessica Newton.
The decision allows Márquez to represent Peru at the upcoming Miss Universe 2026 pageant in Puerto Rico, following public concern over her sudden dethronement just three months before the international event.
Márquez was originally designated as Miss Peru Universe 2026 in April 2026. However, the Miss Peru organization sparked widespread controversy when it published an official statement removing her from the role without disclosing a reason.
The organization stated that Márquez would no longer hold the title of Miss Peru 2026, rendering her representation in Puerto Rico void, and promised to provide further details in the coming days regarding her replacement.
The lack of an official explanation led to mounting speculation across social media. Some reports claimed Márquez had disowned being Peruvian, while others alleged she lost her title over an unpaid fee of 30,000 US dollars demanded by Newton's company.
Public Apology and Pageant Dethronement
Hours after the announcement, Márquez reappeared on social media to issue a public apology to Newton, the Miss Peru organization, and her supporters.
Speaking on her personal channels, Márquez admitted making mistakes and stated that she accepted full responsibility for the consequences of her decisions. She noted that holding the title requires responsibility and that she understands the organization operates under strict rules that must be followed.
Márquez expressed deep gratitude and humility for receiving a second chance to compete in Puerto Rico despite the recent controversy.
The model from Ica also expressed anger toward third parties who she said exploited her vulnerability to spread false information. She categorically denied any claims that attacked Newton or the Miss Peru organization, calling the rumors untrue.
Preparation for Miss Universe 2026
Márquez affirmed that she will continue preparing with hard work and responsibility for Miss Universe 2026, where she will make history as the first representative from the Ica region to compete at the global pageant.
Miss Peru is the national beauty pageant of Peru, held annually under the direction of former beauty queen Jessica Newton to select delegates for major international contests. The Miss Universe 2026 competition will gather representatives from around the world in Puerto Rico.
In other national pageant news reported by the organization, Camila, daughter of Christian Domínguez and Melanie Martínez, was crowned as a national beauty queen and will represent Peru in Colombia.
