Carnival Controversy: Diversity Crown Change Sparks Criticism in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — What was meant to be a celebration of inclusion and joy has instead drawn criticism after an unexpected change in the Diversity category results during the Playa del Carmen Carnival 2026 coronation ceremony.

The controversy stems from a decision made Sunday by the official judging panel, which selected Leiona Demure as Diversity Queen 2026, Jordi Ucan as Diversity King 2026, and Osmar Estrada as Maximum Sovereign King 2026.

The judging panel included state legislator and educator Lilí Mis, attorney Karina Ceja, Nuestra Belleza Universal Quintana Roo 2026 titleholder, and Julio Couoh, subdirector of Cultural Outreach.

However, during Wednesday’s coronation ceremony at the Plaza 28 de Julio Amphitheater, Nick (Vladimir Nicasio), a member of the Diamantes del Carmen group, was crowned Diversity King instead of Jordi Ucan. Ucan was later designated “Carnival Ambassador 2026,” a title that was not part of the original competition categories.

The change prompted criticism on social media, where users questioned the transparency of the selection process. Some online comments suggested that pressure from members of the Diamantes del Carmen group may have influenced the outcome. These claims have not been officially confirmed.

The situation has also drawn attention because Mayor Estefanía Mercado was absent from the coronation ceremony for the second consecutive year, as were the judges who had endorsed the original results. The mayor was represented by Chief Administrative Officer Guillermo Brahms González, accompanied by DIF honorary president Eduardo Asencio Martínez.

During the same event, Daniela Zazil Ortega Pérez was crowned Carnival Queen and Osmal Rafael Estrada Aguayo as King, alongside sovereigns in the Children’s, Youth, Senior Citizen, Inclusion, Education, Let’s Playa (Jessica Vallejo), and Alegría categories. Members of Diamantes del Carmen were also recognized, including Eduardo I as King of Alegría, Nick as Diversity King, Yaretzi as Youth Queen, and Kevin as Youth King.

Despite the festive atmosphere, the alteration of the Diversity category results without a public explanation has raised concerns about transparency and respect for the original jury decision. As of publication, municipal authorities have not issued an official statement clarifying the reasons behind the change or the criteria used to grant the revised designation.

For a carnival that promotes itself as a reflection of pluralism and inclusion, the unresolved questions surrounding the Diversity crown have cast a shadow over the celebration.