Fatima Bosch Wins Miss Universe 2025 Amid Turbulence
Competing against more than 120 contestants from around the world, Fatima Bosch stood out with her poise and determination. Finalists alongside her included representatives from Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Thailand, and Venezuela.
But her journey to the crown was far from smooth. Before the final night, Bosch became the centre of pageant-wide controversy when she publicly confronted the event’s organiser during a heated dispute.
Host’s Insult Sparks Outrage and Walkout
Earlier this month, Bosch walked out of a meeting — dressed in her evening gown and heels — after Thai organiser Nawat Itsaragrisil appeared to single her out during a livestreamed confrontation.
The dispute erupted after Bosch allegedly failed to post some promotional content on her social media accounts.
According to videos circulating online, Nawat criticised her sharply, prompting him to call for security. Bosch, flanked by Miss Iraq, exited the room as other contestants stood in solidarity.
Bosch later revealed to reporters: “What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb. The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.”
The incident triggered global outrage, prompting Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to support Bosch, calling her “an example of how we women should speak out in the face of aggression.”
Nawat issued a public apology shortly afterward.
Judges Quit, Claim Rigged Voting in Pageant
The chaos did not end there. Just days before the final, two judges resigned, further shaking the competition’s credibility.
Omar Harfouch’s Accusations
French composer Omar Harfouch claimed the pageant was manipulated through a “secret and illegitimate vote” allegedly conducted without the official jury’s approval.
In a statement on Instagram, he wrote that the vote involved individuals who were not authorised members of the judging panel.
The Miss Universe Organization swiftly dismissed his allegations, insisting that “no impromptu jury has been created” and reaffirming that official judging protocols were followed.
Claude Makelele Steps Down
Former footballer Claude Makelele, another judge, also withdrew, citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” His departure added to the growing apprehension about the fairness of the competition.
On-Stage Mishaps: Falls, Injuries, and Viral Moment
The drama extended onto the main stage during preliminary and costume rounds.
Miss Britain’s Stage Fall
During the costume round on November 19, Miss Britain Danielle Latimer stumbled and fell flat on stage while wearing an elaborate outfit inspired by classic character Eliza Doolittle. The moment went viral, drawing both sympathy and criticism online.
Miss Jamaica Hospitalised
Another frightening incident occurred when Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry fell off the main stage during the evening gown segment.
According to Miss Universe Organization president Raul Rocha, Henry was hospitalised but remained conscious.
Miss Universe Jamaica’s PR director Shannon-Dale Reid confirmed she was “resting under medical observation” and had not sustained serious injuries.
He declined to provide further updates on November 20, leaving fans concerned about her recovery.
A Historic Victory for Mexico Despite Controversy
Amid chaos, resignations, accusations, and viral mishaps, Fatima Bosch remained composed and focused — qualities that ultimately led her to win Miss Universe 2025. Her resilience, especially following public humiliation by the pageant’s organiser, won global admiration.
This year’s Miss Universe contest will be remembered not only for Bosch’s crowning moment but also for the intense controversies that surrounded it, giving the world a deeper conversation about respect, transparency, and empowerment in global beauty pageants.
