Nigerian-American beauty queen Victoria Oluwakotanmi, has been crowned Miss Grand USA 2026 after the title was withdrawn from the original winner, Mekayla Li.
The Miss Grand USA organisation announced Oluwakotanmi’s appointment on Friday, following the termination of Li’s reign just days after she won the crown.
Oluwakotanmi, who finished as the first runner-up at the August 10 pageant, will now assume the title and represent the United States at the Miss Grand International competition.
Announcing her appointment, the organisation said Oluwakotanmi would “carry the crown” and begin a new chapter with the Miss Grand USA organisation.
The pageant body expressed excitement about her new role and said it looked forward to seeing her represent the United States on the international stage.
Her elevation came after Li’s title was revoked following revelations concerning an alleged 2024 hit-and-run incident and a previous marriage.
In a statement released on Thursday, the organisation announced the termination of Li’s reign and her release from the Miss Grand USA title and related duties, citing its contractual policies.
The organisation also appealed for restraint amid the controversy, urging members of the public to avoid bullying, harassment, defamation and personal attacks.
Oluwakotanmi will now take on the duties of Miss Grand USA 2026 and represent the United States at the international pageant.
