PHOTOS: Meet the Miss Universe Croatia 2026 finalists

by croatiaweek
April 28, 2026
in Entertainment

(Photo: Emanuel Manchy)

Finalists of the Miss Universe Croatia 2026 pageant have signalled the start of the upcoming summer season with a photoshoot on the island of Pag,

The contestants travelled to Novalja where they took part in a swimwear campaign featuring Croatian brand Pletix. The shoot formed part of their official preparations ahead of the national final.

Prior to arriving on Pag, the finalists spent time in Zagreb, filming promotional content at some of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks, including Zrinjevac Park, King Tomislav Square and the Croatian National Theatre. They then went to Novalja, where preparations continued at Hotel Olea.

In Novalja, the contestants completed their first official photoshoot and intensified rehearsals for the final event.

(Photo: Emanuel Manchy)

Organisers highlighted ongoing collaboration with domestic brands and industry professionals, with a focus on presenting a polished and natural look.

Alongside the pageant preparations, an educational and cultural programme was also included. The finalists explored Novalja’s historical heritage, visiting early Christian basilicas dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries, as well as a Roman underground aqueduct from the 1st century BC.

A visit to the Lun olive groves offered further insight into local traditions and way of life on the island.

“This year, we continued our successful cooperation with the Croatian swimwear manufacturer Pletix, whose quality is recognized on the international market. Thanks to the top-quality products from Dr. Vivian’s, the contestants’ skin was perfectly prepared, and our creative team, makeup artist Maja Zatezalo and stylist Maja Hausler in collaboration with Schwarzkopf Professional, further emphasized their natural beauty. The shooting under the lens of Emanuel Manchy took place in a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere,” said the director of the competition, Marija Kraljević.

The Miss Universe Croatia organisation said the initiative was designed not only to prepare contestants for the stage but also to promote Croatian destinations and heritage to a wider international audience.

The entire preparation process has been documented and will be presented during the final night of the competition, scheduled for 25 May 2026 at the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb. The event will be streamed live online, with a television broadcast to follow.

Reigning Miss Universe Croatia 2025, Laura Gnjatović, also joined the programme, mentoring finalists and assisting with stage performance training.

The winner of the 2026 title will represent Croatia at the global Miss Universe competition, set to take place in Puerto Rico in November. In addition to international exposure, the winner will receive a number of prizes, including a scholarship valued at up to €20,000 for undergraduate or MBA studies at the Zagreb School of Economics and Management.

(Photo: Emanuel Manchy)

Miss Universe remains one of the world’s most established beauty pageants, with a 75-year history and a global audience spanning more than 170 countries. The titleholder serves as a goodwill ambassador, participating in charitable initiatives and advocacy projects worldwide.

The current Miss Universe title is held by Mexico’s Fatima Bosch Fernández, recognised for her commitment to environmental and social causes.

Miss Universe Croatia 2026 finalists

1. Zara Bačić (18), Viškovo