China arrives at the 75th Miss Universe with a representative whose path to Puerto Rico came through an unexpected but well-earned turn of events. Carrying the flag for China is Weiyi Chen, 22, who steps into the role after her predecessor was unable to compete internationally.
The original Miss Universe China 2026 titleholder, Xinying Zhu, will not be sent to the Miss Universe pageant because she is underage under the competition’s international eligibility rules. As runner-up, Weiyi Chen automatically inherits the position and will represent China at Miss Universe 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico this November.
Her appointment comes during a period of significant change for the Miss China organization – a new era began this year with the appointment of Owen Chue as the national director for Miss China, who will also oversee the newly included Macau franchise going forward. Weiyi’s participation in Puerto Rico marks one of the first major international moments under this new organizational leadership.
China has a growing and increasingly serious presence on the Miss Universe stage, with the organization investing in stronger preparation and international representation in recent editions. Weiyi Chen now carries that momentum into the 75th anniversary edition of the competition – one of the most significant editions in Miss Universe history given the milestone celebration in Puerto Rico.
Pageanthology’s Assessment:
Stepping in as a runner-up appointee is never an easy position, but it also reflects real merit – national judging panels don’t hand this opportunity to just anyone. With new leadership investing in China’s Miss Universe program, Weiyi Chen has both the platform and the backing to make a genuine impression in San Juan. One to watch as more details of her preparation and platform emerge ahead of November.