María Vargas arrives in Puerto Rico, Digi Mart USA News (San Juan, Puerto Rico): The countdown to Miss Universe 2026 has begun, and Mexico already has its representative in San Juan, Puerto Rico. María Vargas, Miss Universe Mexico 2026, arrived on the island to begin activities leading up to the competition final, scheduled for November 24.
This edition carries special significance because another Mexican, Fátima Bosch, will pass on the crown. Vargas, a native of Jalisco, made the trip with eleven suitcases and high hopes for a strong showing.
Asked how she feels, Vargas said she is very happy and fortunate, describing the journey as a dream she has held for many years. She said she is excited and feels mixed emotions, adding that she is leaving her life in Guadalajara in peace and heading toward a new destination.
Vargas said she wants people to know Mexico through her, describing her country as one of experiences and memories rather than just photos and moments. She acknowledged that social media often says many things about her, but said the Miss Universe experience is one she intends to enjoy.
Asked about a circulating list of supposed favorites, Vargas said she could understand how such lists might cause fear, confusion or anxiety. She said she trusts in God and feels calm about the work and decisions she has made, regardless of how the final turns out.
Vargas described Bosch as an emblem who broke molds, and said she wants to continue that legacy by making the voice of Mexican women heard, speaking for others, and looking out for young people and children. She also emphasized that Mexicans are creative, innocent and capable of surprise, and that women can be friends, trustworthy and supportive of one another.
Asked what she packed, Vargas said she is a hard-working woman who brought everything needed to be disciplined and respectful, along with her faith and personal protections. She said she is eager to work and make history.
Vargas also spoke about the moment of holding hands in the final stage of the contest, saying she thinks about it and feels emotional. She described herself as very patriotic, saying she loves her country and flag and wants people to know Mexico is more than what appears in the news.
Fashion designer Fernando Santos, who is creating Vargas’s wardrobe for the third time, previewed some of the work for the competition’s stages. He said Vargas is well prepared and that she has lost weight due to stress while working on discipline and fitness.
Santos said the wardrobe includes outfits for the semifinal, final, galas, interview scenes and other looks, and noted that she currently has a waist of nearly 55 centimeters.
