Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch Fernández was crowned the 74th Miss Universe on Friday in Bangkok, Thailand, capping a tumultuous pageant season defined by her courageous stand against organizer misconduct. Her victory, amid a field of 130 contestants, followed a highly publicized walkout that drew global attention and sparked debates about respect and empowerment in beauty competitions.
The crowning ceremony in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, saw Bosch, a 25-year-old fashion student, triumph over competitors from around the world. Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh placed as first runner-up, while Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali secured third, followed by Miss Philippines Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d’Ivoire Olivia Yacé. The event, broadcast to international audiences, not only celebrated the new titleholder but also highlighted the underlying conflicts that had overshadowed the competition.
Controversy erupted earlier in November when Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated Bosch during a sashing ceremony, accusing her of failing to participate in promotional activities. When Bosch defended herself, Nawat called security and threatened to disqualify supporters, prompting her to walk out in protest. Several contestants, including Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, joined her in solidarity, turning the incident into a viral moment that underscored issues of dignity and fair treatment.
In the aftermath, the Miss Universe Organization condemned Nawat’s actions as “malicious” and “public aggression,” with Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha, the organization’s president, urging his Thai counterpart to stop. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised Bosch for exemplifying how women should speak out against aggression, emphasizing the importance of voice and participation. Nawat later issued a tearful apology, though his mixed demeanor left many questioning its sincerity.
Further turmoil struck the pageant when two judges resigned days before the finale. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch alleged that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected finalists, accusing organizers of rigging—a claim firmly denied by the Miss Universe Organization. Former French football star Claude Makelele also stepped down, citing personal reasons. Additionally, Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry’s on-stage fall during the evening gown round, though not serious, added to the event’s chaotic atmosphere.
The 2025 pageant has faced broader challenges, including leadership transitions and cultural clashes between its Thai and Mexican owners. Former owner Anne Jakrajutatip had championed inclusivity by allowing transgender women, married women, and mothers to compete, but her company’s bankruptcy and subsequent resignation created instability. Analysts note that split leadership between Bangkok and Mexico has confused fans and damaged the brand, with declining TV audiences pushing the organization toward social media and influencer-driven content.
Despite these issues, the Miss Universe pageant remains a significant platform in regions like Latin America and Southeast Asia, where it offers pathways out of poverty and into celebrity. Organizers have adapted by permitting conservative attire in swimsuit rounds and focusing on empowerment, but persistent criticism about objectification and relevance lingers. The recent scandals highlight the need for clear governance and cultural sensitivity to preserve the competition’s legacy.
Fátima Bosch’s win represents a victory for resilience and principled stands, potentially reshaping the pageant’s future. As Miss Universe, she is expected to advocate for sustainability, mental health, and migrant rights, causes she has long supported. The organization must now address internal divisions and evolve to stay meaningful in an era where traditional pageants compete with digital media for attention and influence.
