ESPOO

Veterinary student Veera Grönlund was crowned Miss Finland 2026 in early September with Aleksandra Hannusaari and Sofia Singh as first and second runners-up.

At the age of 30, Grönlund made history as the oldest woman to be crowned Miss Finland, a significant achievement that has ignited public debate about age within the realm of pageantry.

Grönlund expressed her shock during the announcement and emphasized that age should not hinder participation in the competition.

She will represent Finland at the Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico, aiming to use her voice for good.

The event took place at the Hype Hybrid Arena in Espoo on September 5, judged by a panel including former titleholders and influencers.

View the gallery below.

Who is the fairest of them all? Photograph: Erno Nikolov
For the eventual winner of the Miss Finland title, Veera Grönlund, the tension on stage blossomed into a whirlwind of amazement. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Grönlund described the moment as almost otherworldly, telling reporters that her “soul practically detached from her body” in a rush of happiness. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
A historic milestone. At 30, Grönlund became the oldest woman ever crowned Miss Finland, a milestone that has sparked public discussion about age in pageantry. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Grönlund has shared that she is pansexual and has discussed recovering from anorexia and orthorexia with professional help. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Grönlund is surrounded by debate about whether 30 is ‘too old’ to represent Miss Finland. Grönlund shared with the media that the age debate feels outdated and that her self-knowledge and life experience have prepared her for the title’s responsibility and public attention. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
The debate has widened to the future of Miss Finland, with critics questioning whether the title should remain centered on women in their early 20s. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Grönlund has spent more than seven years in animal-welfare efforts, including fundraising coordination and rescue volunteering in Romania. For the pageant’s charity project, Grönlund organized a food-line event for pets of low-income families with Rekku Rescue and Meidän Eläinsäätiö. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Before entering pageantry, Grönlund competed in body fitness at the Finnish championship level in 2015 and 2016. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Now, as a personal trainer and former fitness athlete, she advocates for “responsible beauty” and healthy body relationships. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Grönlund will represent Finland at the November 2026 Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico, where there is no upper age limit. Photograph: Erno Nikolov
Click to view the gallery. Photographs: Erno Nikolov