"After meeting with the virologists and medical experts hired to oversee the Miss World 2021 event and discussing with the Puerto Rico Health Department, the decision has been made by the organizers of the event to postpone the globally broadcast finale at the Puerto Rico Coliseum Jose Miguel Agrelot to be held within the next 90 days," the statement on Facebook reads.
"As of yesterday, additional safety measures were implemented in the best interest of the contestants, production team and spectators, understanding the event increased risks on the stage and in the dressing room," it added. "However, after additional positive cases were confirmed this morning after consulting with health officials and experts, the postponement decision was made."
A statement released on behalf of Miss World's Malaysian contestant, Dr. Lavanya Sivaji, via Instagram on Thursday before the news of the postponement said she was among "the few" participants who tested positive for COVID-19 after taking a PCR test.
A post shared by Miss World Malaysia - FGSB (@missworldmy)
According to the Miss World statement, contestants and staff will have the opportunity to return to their home countries after they've been given the all-clear from medical experts until the competition resumes.
It also included words from Julia Morley, CEO of Miss World Ltd, who said they are "very much looking forward to the return of our contestants, (who we have grown to know and love), to compete for the Miss World crown."
"Puerto Rico offers a safe environment, and a spectacular backdrop for filming the Miss World Festival!" she added.
Puerto Rico's Department of Health did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.
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