Nigerian-American Victoria Oluwakotanmi crowned Miss Grand USA 2026
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
News
Official statement
Outcome reported
- Victoria Oluwakotanmi, a Nigerian-American beauty queen, has been crowned Miss Grand USA 2026.
- She replaces Mekayla Li, whose title was revoked shortly after her coronation due to alleged legal issues.
- Oluwakotanmi, the first runner-up, will now represent the United States at the Miss Grand International pageant.
Victoria Oluwakotanmi, a Nigerian-American beauty queen, has been appointed Miss Grand USA 2026, stepping into the role after the previous titleholder's reign was terminated. The Miss Grand USA organization announced Oluwakotanmi's elevation on social media, following the withdrawal of Mekayla Li's crown just over a week after she was crowned.
With great excitement, @officialmissgrandusa proudly announces #tori_olu VICTORIA OLUWAKOTANMI Victoria Oluwakotanmi as Miss Grand USA 2026.
Oluwakotanmi, who secured the first runner-up position in the pageant, will now bear the Miss Grand USA crown and is set to represent the United States on the international stage. The organization expressed excitement for her upcoming journey, highlighting the "purpose, opportunity, unforgettable experiences" that lie ahead as she embarks on this new chapter.
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 transition occurred after Li's reign was reportedly ended due to revelations concerning an alleged hit-and-run incident from 2024 and a prior marriage. Li was crowned on August 10, but her title was revoked days later, with the organization citing a breach of contractual policies.
We are incredibly excited for everything ahead and cannot wait for the world to experience this next chapter alongside her.
The Miss Grand USA organization also appealed for respectful dialogue during this period of transition, stating their firm stance against bullying and harassment. Oluwakotanmi is now expected to fulfill the duties associated with the Miss Grand USA 2026 title and prepare for the Miss Grand International competition.
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].
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
More Stories
From Our Blog
How the Same Story Looks Different in Different Countries
What Gets Lost (and Found) When News Is Translated
The Critical Role of Diaspora Media in Global News
What Travellers Should Know About Countries with Restricted Press
A Digital Nomad's Guide to Following Local News
