Fátima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe on Friday, concluding a competition that included several reported incidents and allegations.
Pre-Competition Incident
Weeks prior to the final event, an incident occurred during an early November sash ceremony. Nawat Itsaragrisil, then the pageant's director, addressed Fátima Bosch regarding her participation in promotional activities. When Bosch attempted to respond, security was called to escort her out. Subsequently, several other contestants, including then-reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, also exited the room.
Bosch later stated to Thai media that the director had made critical remarks concerning her, which she linked to organizational issues. She emphasized her commitment to the competition and the platform it provided for women's voices. Itsaragrisil subsequently stated in a press conference that he had not used the term "dumbhead" as widely reported, but rather referred to "damage" caused by behavior. He issued an apology, without naming Bosch, at a preliminary event.
Organizational Response and Bosch's Statement
Raúl Rocha, President of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), issued a video statement criticizing Itsaragrisil's conduct, citing a perceived lack of respect towards contestants and the use of security. Rocha announced that legal and corporate consequences would follow and that Itsaragrisil's participation in the pageant would be restricted or eliminated. However, Itsaragrisil and Rocha were photographed together at pageant events as recently as Thursday.
During the final round, Bosch was asked about utilizing her title to create a safe space for women globally. She stated her intention to use her voice to serve others and advocate for change. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged Bosch's victory, commenting on her decision to speak up against perceived injustice.
Pageant Week Developments
Days before the final competition, two of the eight judges withdrew from the panel. Claude Makélélé cited "unforeseen personal reasons" for his departure. Omar Harfouch alleged that the competition was compromised, stating that a "secret vote" involving non-official jury members was conducted to pre-select contestants. The Miss Universe Organization denied Harfouch's allegations, clarifying that no unauthorized jury was formed and that all evaluations adhered to established protocols.
Additionally, during the preliminary evening gown round, Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry fell off the stage and was subsequently hospitalized. She did not participate in the finals. MUO President Rocha confirmed she was under observation in a Bangkok hospital with no broken bones.
Ownership and Context
Since 2024, the Miss Universe Organization has been jointly owned by the Thai media company JKN and Legacy Holding Group USA Inc., a division of a Mexican company. The organization has experienced multiple ownership changes since its inception in 1952, including a period under former President Trump. The organization has faced challenges including declining viewership, financial instability, and ongoing discussions regarding its relevance and inclusivity. Puerto Rico's Gov. Jenniffer González-Colón announced that the island will host the competition next year.