Miss Universe 1981, the 30th Miss Universe pageant, was held at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City, United States, on 20 July 1981. Irene Sáez of Venezuela was crowned Miss Universe by outgoing titleholder Shawn Weatherly of the United States. The competition featured 77 contestants, though Miss Mauritius withdrew during the event. Originally planned for Guatemala City, the pageant was relocated to New York City due to financial and political reasons.