Miss Universe 2006 - Historical Significance

Historical Significance

• A top 20 was selected, rather than the usual top 15.
• Countries that placed for the first time were: Ukraine, Hungary and Ethiopia.
• Countries that got called out to the semi-finals after a long period without placement were: Denmark (39 years), Argentina (27 years), Thailand (18 years), Bolivia (16 years) and Sweden (9 years). This was the longest absence in history for these countries without placements.
• Lauriane Gilliéron, 2nd runner-up became Switzerland's highest placement in Miss Universe, surpassing Lolita Morena's 1983 record of 3rd runner-up.
• Venezuela did not place for only the second time in the past 24 years.
• Ethiopia was the only African country to place in the top 20.
• Puerto Rico, with their fifth win, became the second most successful territory/state (behind the USA with 7 wins) to compete at Miss Universe, followed by Venezuela with four wins. In 2008 Venezuela tied Puerto Rico with their fifth win, then moved into second place with their sixth win in 2009, dropping Puerto Rico into third place.
• Philippines won via internet voting five Miss Photogenic awards. This is its fourth.
• Japan won the Best National Costume award for the first time.
• Trinidad and Tobago made the semifinals for the fourth straight year.
• Mauritius is the sister of Magalie Antoo, the last year's Miss Mauritius.