Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was crowned Miss Universe on Friday in Thailand, overcoming a series of controversies that overshadowed the competition.
The pageant, which drew over 120 contestants from around the world, saw finalists from the Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Thailand, and Venezuela join Bosch on stage for the final round of one of the “big four” global beauty contests.
However, the lead-up to the crowning was fraught with drama. Bosch faced public criticism from the pageant’s host, Thai organizer Nawat Itsaragrisil, who reportedly chastised her over her failure to post promotional content on social media. In response, Bosch staged a striking walkout, donning an evening gown and high heels, with Miss Iraq accompanying her.
“What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters at the time. “The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.”
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised Bosch’s stance, calling her “an example of how we women should speak out” in the face of aggression. Nawat later issued an apology for his remarks.
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Other disruptions included the withdrawal of two judges shortly before the final. French composer Omar Harfouch alleged that the contest was influenced by a “secret and illegitimate vote” conducted without the official jury. “This vote was conducted by individuals who are not recognised members of the official judging panel,” he said on Instagram. The Miss Universe Organisation dismissed the claim, stating that “no impromptu jury has been created.” Former professional footballer Claude Makelele also stepped down from judging, citing “unforeseen personal reasons.”
The competition itself was not without mishaps. During the costume round, Miss Britain Danielle Latimer fell on stage in her outfit inspired by Eliza Doolittle. Meanwhile, Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry was hospitalised after a fall during the evening gown segment, though Miss Universe Jamaica’s PR director, Shannon-Dale Reid, confirmed she was “resting under medical observation” and had not suffered serious injuries.
Despite the controversies and accidents, Bosch emerged victorious, securing the coveted Miss Universe crown and marking a dramatic conclusion to a tumultuous pageant.