Pageant marred by clash between director and Miss Mexico, judges resign, and organizational crisis
Tensions exploded at Miss Universe 2025, held in Thailand, after a serious clash between contestants and the event’s director, Nawat Itsaragrisil. The fallout has included walk-outs, judge resignations, legal threats, and a public apology.
What Sparked the Controversy
- The incident began during a live-streamed sash ceremony, when Nawat confronted Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, accusing her of refusing to post promotional content for Thailand.
- Things escalated when Nawat reportedly called her “dummy,” triggering a backlash.
- Multiple contestants, including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, walked out in solidarity with Bosch.
- Nawat responded by demanding that those supporting Bosch “sit down or be disqualified.”
Judges Quit Amid Conflict
- Composer Omar Harfouch resigned just days before the final, alleging a “secret selection committee” chose the Top 30 finalists — without input from the official judges.
- He claimed this unofficial panel included people who had personal relationships with some contestants — a conflict of interest, he said.
- Following Harfouch, Claude Makélélé also stepped down, citing “personal reasons.”
- In response, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) denied the existence of a clandestine jury and said all evaluations were done transparently.
Legal Threats & Fallout
- Harfouch has raised legal concerns, suggesting the process lacks legitimacy and transparency.
- The MUO has reportedly banned him from using its trademarks or associating himself with the Miss Universe brand in the future.
- The crisis adds pressure on the pageant’s leadership and raises questions about its internal governance.
Emotional Apology
- In a press conference, Nawat Itsaragrisil apologized publicly, appearing tearful and emotional.
- He said, “I want to apologise to everyone … I had no idea how big this issue would become.”
- At the contestants’ welcome event later, he addressed the audience again, asking for forgiveness from delegates who felt hurt.
- In a message, Miss Universe Organization President Raúl Rocha condemned Nawat’s conduct, calling respect and dignity “non‑negotiable.”
Why This Is a Big Deal
- Pageant Integrity Questioned: The walk-outs and resignations raise doubts about the fairness of Miss Universe 2025’s selection process.
- Host Controversy: The director’s behavior, and the emotional apology, have shaken the image of professionalism in pageantry.
- Power of Solidarity: Contestants walking out together show that they are willing to stand up for each other against disrespect.
- Brand Risk: For MUO, the controversy threatens its reputation and may force serious internal reckoning or reform.
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