Miss Universe Puerto Rico announces second trans contestant, Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez

Miss Universe Puerto Rico has confirmed that Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez will compete in its 2026 national pageant, becoming the second openly trans woman to enter the competition.

Rodríguez Velázquez follows in the footsteps of Daniela Arroyo González, who made history in 2023 as the first trans contestant to participate in Miss Universe Puerto Rico. Organisers say the announcement reflects the pageant’s continued commitment to showcasing modern womanhood in all its diversity .

In statements shared through official Miss Universe Puerto Rico platforms, Rodríguez Velázquez described her participation as an opportunity to advocate for human rights, dignity and inclusion, both inside and beyond the world of beauty contests. “I want to be Miss Universe Puerto Rico because of what I represent: a woman who stands for equality and respect,” she said in a promotional video released by the organisation .

She is widely regarded as a multidisciplinary artist, working across music, performance and writing, and is also an accomplished athlete who has competed in table tennis at federation level in Puerto Rico.

The inclusion of Rodríguez Velázquez builds on broader changes introduced by the Miss Universe Organisation, which has permitted the participation of trans women since 2012, with the policy taking effect in the 2013 competition season.

As with earlier milestones, the announcement has sparked lively debate across social media and in public discourse. In response to criticism directed at Rodríguez Velázquez, the LGBTQ+ Federation of Puerto Rico issued a statement affirming her right to compete under the existing rules and condemning hostile reactions as discriminatory.

“Trans people have dreams and aspirations like anyone else,” said federation director Ivana Fred Millán, adding that Rodríguez Velázquez earned her place through effort and persistence.

For Rodríguez Velázquez and her supporters, the significance of her candidacy extends beyond the final result. “Every time a trans woman is visible in a space that once excluded us, doors open a little wider,” she said in a recent interview with Puerto Rican media.