Miss Universe 2025 Scandal: Walkouts, Judge Resignations, Legal Threats, Emotional Apology
The upcoming Miss Universe 2025 pageant has become embroiled in controversy following a series of dramatic events leading up to the ceremony. Scheduled for November 21, 2025, in Thailand, the event will feature 122 contestants from around the globe competing for the prestigious crown.
Walkouts and Confrontations
Prior to the finals, tensions flared during a pre-pageant event between Miss Universe Mexico, Fatima Bosch, and the competition’s Thailand director, Nawat Itsaragrisil. The confrontation arose over Bosch’s refusal to share promotional content about the host country.
As the argument escalated, Bosch walked out of the venue, prompting other contestants, including Denmark’s Victoria Theilvig, to follow her lead. Itsaragrisil issued a warning to those who supported Bosch: “If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down.” This incident sparked widespread backlash from fans, who criticized Itsaragrisil for potentially harming Thailand’s image.
Past Controversies
This incident is not the first controversy regarding Itsaragrisil’s management style. He also oversees the Miss Grand International pageant, which faced scrutiny when its 2024 winner, Rachel Gupta from India, resigned, citing a “toxic environment.”
Emotional Apology and Response
In response to the backlash, Raul Rocha, the president of the Miss Universe Organisation, shared a video on Instagram condemning Itsaragrisil’s actions. He announced that senior executives, including CEO Mario Bucaro, would travel to Thailand to address the situation directly.
Later, Itsaragrisil held a press conference in which he emotionally apologized for his behavior. He repeated his apology during a welcome ceremony for the contestants in Bangkok, stating: “I have to apologise to the delegates if anyone felt uncomfortable… Thank you so much for making Thailand the host country for Miss Universe again.”
Judge Resignations Just Days Before the Event
Adding to the turmoil, Omar Harfouch, a judge and composer, announced his resignation just three days before the Miss Universe 2025 finale. He alleged that a “secret committee” had predetermined the top 30 finalists before preliminary rounds. Harfouch cited a “significant potential conflict of interest,” including claims of an affair between a contestant and a member of the selection committee.
Harfouch described the unofficial judging panel as having ties to contestants, which jeopardized the integrity of the results. Following his resignation, French soccer manager Claude Makélélé also withdrew from the pageant, mentioning support from his fans without specifying reasons.
Response from the Miss Universe Organisation
In light of these allegations, the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) denied claims of any impropriety, asserting that all judging procedures are conducted transparently and in accordance with established protocols. The MUO also banned Harfouch from any association with the brand.
Looking Ahead to the Pageant
Miss India 2025, Manika Vishwakarma, will represent her country at the competition. Fans can watch the event live on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel at 6:30 am IST.
