With the grand coronation night for the 70th Miss World pageant just two days away, seven candidates from Miss World 2021 are in isolation after a possible Covid-19 exposure. The news broke out as Indonesia’s Carla Yules was suspected of being infected positive for the virus and being quarantined. Carla’s roommate Manasa Varanasi of India has also been isolated for the time being waiting for her test results.

While Carla’s participating in the final show is still not confirmed, both the Asian delegates and the Asian fans are disheartened by the news. Other candidates who are also under suspicion include 3 African, 2 Asian and 2 Latina delegates. Addressing the issue, Miss World chairman Julia Morley, in a statement on 15th December, said, “The Miss World Organization is following national guidelines. If they don't produce a negative molecular PCR test, they won't be on stage for the final show.”

“Knowing the seriousness of this global situation that we all face, we took steps to capture the unique talent of each contestant so that, in case they couldn't join us last night, they could still win the crown as Miss World 2021. The panel of judges will review your prerecorded video content to make their final decision," Morley said.

"We want to assure everyone that the Miss World Organization from day 1 has implemented a strict and aggressive protocol of taking samples from all candidates through molecular PCR tests. We are an experienced and responsible global organization that is very excited to celebrate our 70th anniversary in Puerto Rico and we remain dedicated to the health and safety of our participants and the people of Puerto Rico," the statement added.

Miss World 2021 will be the 70th edition of the Miss World pageant, scheduled to be held on 16th December, 2021 at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Miss World 2019 Toni-Ann Singh of Jamaica will crown her successor at the end of the event.