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Lina Luaces was crowned this week as Miss Universe Cuba, officially becoming the island's representative for the upcoming edition of the Miss Universe pageant. However, her selection has not been without controversy due to her family ties to the entertainment world.
Daughter of the presenter Lili Estefan and second niece of the renowned couple Emilio and Gloria Estefan, the young model has been the target of questions suggesting that her relationship with this famous family may have influenced her crowning.
During a recent interview on the program Al rojo vivo, Luaces addressed the rumors and shared a personal reflection on the impact of his surname on his career.
"Thank you for asking me this. I believe many people have this question. But I learned that it’s all about perspective. Some days I thought it helped me, other days I thought it was a disadvantage, that I had to work three times harder,” declared the new Miss Cuba.
When questioned about the criticisms suggesting that her command of English is superior to that of Spanish or that her prior fame may have given her an advantage, Luaces responded firmly:
"I consider myself lucky to have tough skin, because I grew up in the public eye. Since I was a child, I've always been criticized for anything and everything. As a girl, I learned early on that I had to look in the mirror and declare who I am. Because when you know who you are, you've already won. Nobody can take that away from you," she stated.
Despite the debate that has arisen, Lina Luaces stands out as one of the most media-savvy candidates in this edition of Miss Universe. She is only the second Cuban representative in the contest in over half a century, following Marianela Ancheta's return of the island in 2024 after 57 years of absence. With a strong presence in the entertainment world and experience in front of the cameras, Luaces embarks on a journey towards the international crown that will undoubtedly continue to attract attention and controversy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lina Luaces and Miss Universe Cuba 2025
Why has the selection of Lina Luaces as Miss Universe Cuba 2025 generated controversy?
The selection of Lina Luaces has sparked controversy due to her family connections with entertainment figures such as Lili Estefan, Emilio, and Gloria Estefan. Some question whether her relationships played a role in her coronation. Despite the criticism, Lina defends herself by arguing that her journey is the result of her own hard work and preparation.
What is Lina Luaces' response to the criticisms regarding her command of English and her prior fame?
Lina Luaces responds to criticism by stating that she has learned to have "thick skin" and that her fame does not guarantee an easier path. Since her youth, she has been in the public eye, which has taught her to focus on who she really is, without allowing criticism to impact her self-perception.
What does Lina Luaces represent for the Miss Universe Cuba pageant?
Lina Luaces is the second Cuban representative in Miss Universe in over fifty years. Her victory symbolizes an important step for Cuba in the international competition, following the return in 2024 with Marianela Ancheta. Lina aims to make her mark through her own merit and to represent Cuba with dignity in the upcoming edition of the contest in Thailand.
How did Lina Luaces' family react to her being crowned Miss Universe Cuba 2025?
Lina Luaces's family, including Emilio and Gloria Estefan, reacted with pride and enthusiasm to her crowning. Lili Estefan, her mother, was visibly emotional during the event, while her great-uncles expressed their admiration and support through heartfelt messages on social media.
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