The future of the Miss South Africa beauty pageant is hanging by a thread after losing its headline sponsor.

After five colourful years, Cell C has pulled out of sponsoring the Miss SA contest in partnership with Sun International.

Yesterday, Sun International confirmed the break-up and assured that the competition will only start planning for this year's pageant once they have found new sponsorship.

Reigning Miss SA Tamaryn Green was crowned last May.

"Sun International is engaged in discussions with potential new sponsors who have expressed interest, this is a great opportunity for a new partner to take the reins and reap the rewards of proud association with this beloved South African brand," said Zoleka Skweyiya, Sun International's group manager for communications.

"Planning and entries will only commence for the Miss South Africa 2019 competition once sponsorship agreements have been finalised," Skweyiya said.

"The Miss SA Organisation will look to maintain the high standards, strong competitors and world-class pageant as per the last few years."

During the illustrious partnership they managed to fly the SA flag high, helping produce two international title winners - Rolene Strauss (Miss World 2014) and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (Miss Universe 2017).

Green was the first runner-up at Miss Universe 2018.

"While we can confirm that our partnership as headline sponsor of this property has come to an end, the value that it has provided to Cell C as a brand has been outstanding," Cell C said in a written statement to Sowetan.

"Our decision to withdraw as sponsor follows a review of our various sponsorship properties. Cell C as a brand has evolved and we are looking at new opportunities that are in line with our strategic focus as a business."

Broadcast partner Mzansi Magic's public relations manager Philly Kubheka commented: "We as a channel are very excited to be a part of the prestigious event being Miss SA.

"The date to air the show will be before the end of 2019. We will advice accordingly."