Venezuela’s Sthefany Gutierrez withdraws from 1st MGI All Stars

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MANILA, Philippines — Venezuelan beauty queen Sthefany Gutierrez has withdrawn from the first edition of Miss Grand International (MGI) All Stars to focus on her family.

The Miss Universe 2018 second runner-up announced her departure from the pageant, which is set to hold its coronation at the end of the month in Bangkok, Thailand.

“With deep sadness, and after careful reflection on my personal circumstance, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the first edition of Miss Grand All Stars.

“This has been a deeply considered decision, based on my personal and family responsibilities, which at this moment require my full attention and dedication,” Gutierrez said in a statement posted on Instagram early Tuesday.

She thanked the MGI organization for understanding her decision, as well as her fans and family for their continued support.

Gutierrez added that she is “fully confident” Venezuela will be “brilliantly represented” in the competition.

Changes ahead of coronation

The inaugural edition was initially announced with 58 delegates. It remains unclear whether Venezuela will field a replacement for Gutierrez.

Five candidates are representing the Philippines: Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados, Imelda Schweighart, Keylyn Trajano, Fuschia Anne Ravena, and Alexia Nunez.

An offshoot of the Thailand-based Miss Grand International pageant, the All Stars edition is open to women and transgender women aged 20 to 40 who have competed in international pageants.

The Miss Grand International All Stars coronation night is scheduled for May 30 in Bangkok.

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