Nigerian-American beauty queen, Victoria Oluwakotanmi, has been named Miss Grand USA 2026, replacing Mekayla Li, whose title was withdrawn just over a week after she was crowned.
The Miss Grand USA organisation announced Oluwakotanmi’s appointment in an official statement shared on social media on Friday, following the termination of Li’s reign.
“With great excitement, @officialmissgrandusa proudly announces #tori_olu VICTORIA OLUWAKOTANMI Victoria Oluwakotanmi as Miss Grand USA 2026,” the organisation said.
Oluwakotanmi, who finished as the first runner-up at the pageant, will now carry the Miss Grand USA crown and represent the United States at the international level.
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“Victoria now steps forward to carry the crown, represent the United States, and begin an extraordinary new chapter with the Miss Grand USA organisation,” the pageant said.
The organisation described her appointment as the beginning of a new journey filled with “purpose, opportunity, unforgettable experiences” and the honour of representing the US internationally.
“We are incredibly excited for everything ahead and cannot wait for the world to experience this next chapter alongside her,” it added.
The appointment came after Li’s reign was terminated following revelations about an alleged 2024 hit-and-run and a previous marriage.
Li was crowned Miss Grand USA at the finals held on August 10, but her title was revoked days later.
“Miss Grand USA announces the termination of Mekayla Li’s reign and her release from the Miss Grand USA Title and all associated duties. This decision was made in accordance with contractual policies outlined by the [organisation],” the pageant said in a statement released on its social media pages on Thursday.
The organisation also appealed for restraint following the controversy surrounding Li’s removal.
“We ask that all dialogue surrounding this transition remain respectful. Miss Grand USA stands firmly against bullying, harassment, defamation, degrading remarks and personal attacks of any kind,” it added.
Oluwakotanmi will now assume the responsibilities of Miss Grand USA 2026 and represent the United States at the Miss Grand International pageant.
“USA, meet your Miss Grand USA 2026… VICTORIA OLUWAKOTANMI,” the organisation announced.
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