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Fatima Bosch Crowned Miss Universe 2025 Amidst Scandal and Controversy

November 21, 2025 SEBASTIAN ROTHWELL (World) World
Fatima Bosch Crowned Miss Universe 2025 Amidst Scandal and Controversy

Mexico’s Fatima Bosch Crowned Miss Universe Amidst Season of Unprecedented Controversy

By Sebastian Rothwell, World Editor

WORLDYS NEWS — The 74th Miss Universe pageant has concluded in Thailand, with Fatima Bosch of Mexico capturing the crown, but the event will be remembered for a season marred by extraordinary controversy, including allegations of mistreatment, resignations, and leadership challenges.

Drama Unfolds in Bangkok

The culmination of the pageant, held for the fourth time in Thailand, was overshadowed by a series of dramatic incidents. Just weeks before the finale, Bosch, 25, withdrew from a pre-pageant event after an organizer publicly reprimanded her for not posting promotional content. The situation escalated when the organizer allegedly threatened to disqualify participants supporting her. Bosch exited the venue, accompanied by other contestants in a show of solidarity.

The incident prompted a rebuke from the Miss Universe Organization, which described the organizer’s actions as “malicious.” The organization’s Mexican leadership called for the behavior to cease, though the Thai organizer later issued an apology, stating his words were misunderstood.

Further turbulence struck when two judges resigned from the panel. Omar Arfoush, a Lebanese-French musician, claimed on Instagram that finalists had been pre-selected by an “improvised jury.” Shortly after, former French football star Claude Makélélé also withdrew, citing “unforeseen personal reasons.” The Miss Universe Organization refuted these claims, stating no external group was authorized to judge or select finalists. They suggested Arfoush might have been referring to an independent initiative called “Beyond the Crown.”

Adding to the drama, Miss Jamaica fell during the evening gown segment and was taken off on a stretcher, requiring hospitalization.

Leadership Transition and Cultural Clashes

These controversies emerged during a period of significant transition for the Miss Universe Organization. Shortly before the pageant events, transgender media mogul Anne Jakrajutatip stepped down as CEO, replaced by Guatemalan diplomat Mario Búcaro. Jakrajutatip had acquired Miss Universe in 2022 from Endeavor, introducing inclusive changes such as allowing transgender, married, and older contestants.

The pageant’s hosting in Thailand was managed by Navat Itsaragrisil, founder and owner of the Miss Grand International pageant, a smaller Thai competition known for its social media presence. However, the overall Miss Universe organization is directed from Mexico by businessman Raúl Rocha.

Analysts suggest these differing operational and cultural approaches between Thai and Mexican leadership may have contributed to the recent discord. While beauty pageants have historically been dominated by contestants from the Americas, fan bases in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, have grown increasingly influential. In these regions, winning a crown can be seen as a pathway to social mobility or fame.

Despite financial difficulties, including Jakrajutatip’s company JKN filing for bankruptcy in 2023, the focus has been on evolving the Miss Universe brand for the digital age. Itsaragrisil’s strategy, which includes live-streaming sales similar to his Miss Grand International model, appears aimed at integrating e-commerce with the pageant.

However, some observers note that the division of key roles between teams in Bangkok and Mexico has created confusion. Paula Shugart, former president of Miss Universe under previous ownership, commented that “No one knows who the real leaders are or who to turn to. This is very damaging to the brand.”

Beyond the Crown: Advocacy and Evolving Roles

In recent years, beauty pageants have increasingly served as platforms for advocacy. Miss World Philippines, for instance, highlights women’s health and reproductive rights, demonstrating how these events can amplify crucial social issues. The “Beauty With a Purpose” initiative by Miss World has recognized impactful projects, such as providing clean water and improving sanitation in underserved communities, and initiatives addressing child sexual abuse.

The Miss Universe Organization itself has been working to remain relevant in an era where traditional television viewership is declining, with social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram becoming dominant. Many former titleholders and runners-up maintain large followings, acting as influential figures.

Public perception of beauty pageants continues to evolve, with ongoing debates about objectification. Yet, efforts are being made towards greater inclusivity. For example, in 2025, contestants from conservative nations were permitted to wear full coverage in the swimsuit segment. Shugart emphasized that “empowering women must be at the core of the organization.”

While acknowledging that pageants will always face criticism, Shugart added, “As long as the core values are intact, I think beauty pageants will always have a role in society.” Former titleholders also continue to leverage their platforms for charitable causes, such as providing aid to disaster victims.

Ultimately, the 2025 Miss Universe pageant, despite its troubled journey, underscores the enduring quest for relevance and adaptation by a long-standing global competition in a rapidly changing media landscape.