Israel’s contestant faints during Miss Universe rehearsal

Noa Cochva receives medical treatment and is expected to recover in time to participate in event that kicks off in Eilat early Monday morning Israel time

Amy Spiro is a reporter and writer with The Times of Israel

Israeli Miss Universe contestant Noa Cochva. (Benjamin Askinas/Miss Universe)
Israeli Miss Universe contestant Noa Cochva. (Benjamin Askinas/Miss Universe)

EILAT — Israel’s Miss Universe contestant, Noa Cochva, fainted backstage at rehearsals for the international competition in Eilat, organizers said Sunday.

Cochva, 22, received medical treatment backstage and is expected to recover in time for the finals of the event, which kick off at 2 a.m. local time Monday.

“Thank you all for your concern. I feel good and strong,” she said in a statement to her ostensible supporters, vowing to return in time for the competition.

The 70th Miss Universe pageant will kick off with 80 contestants from around the globe parading across the stage in an effort to win the coveted tiara.

Israel was selected as the host country in part due to its early success against COVID.

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