Tharina Botes crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2026

Bangkok's Tharina Botes has been crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2026 following her triumph at the national pageant on Sunday. Her victory at MGI Hall secures her spot to represent Thailand at the upcoming 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico. Suthida Iadpu, representing Phuket, secured the first runner-up title, while Helena Sarakal, representing Udon Thani, took the second runner-up position.

Botes' remarkable pageant journey spans over a decade, beginning at age 13 when she started competing in beauty contests with the unwavering support of her mother. She began her career in South Africa, reaching the Top 12 in Miss South Africa 2018 and competing as Miss Model of the World 2018 for South Africa. Moving to Thailand in 2019, she claimed the title of Miss Grand Phuket and advanced to the Top 10 in Miss Grand Thailand.

Her persistence paid off when she became the first runner-up at Miss Universe Thailand 2021. In 2023, Botes clinched the Miss Thailand World title, representing Thailand at Miss World 2023. She also competed at MGI All Stars, reaching the Top 10. With this crowning achievement, Botes has marked a significant milestone in her pageant career and will now represent Thailand at Miss Universe 2026 in Puerto Rico.