The Miss Universe pageant for the year 2025 has been marred by a series of controversies even after Mexico’s Fátima Bosch Fernández was crowned the winner last week. The competition was overshadowed by incidents of bullying, a contestant’s hospitalization, and allegations of vote manipulation.
Miss Universe Haiti, Melissa Queenie Sapini, issued a statement expressing concerns about the unsettling events behind the scenes during the pageant held in Bangkok. The competition faced challenges such as a Thai organizer’s criticism of Bosch, judges dropping out citing possible vote rigging, a fake drug scandal, and a contestant falling off the stage.
The ongoing turmoil raises questions about the future of the 74-year-old pageant and the relevance of beauty pageants in today’s society. Despite the controversies, the Miss Universe Organization reported record-breaking viewership numbers, with 2.6 billion global views across social media platforms.
Moreover, the fallout from the pageant continues as contestants renounce their titles and organizations reconsider their affiliation with the competition. Miss Jamaica remains hospitalized after her fall, and there are arrest warrants for two co-owners of the pageant in Thailand and Mexico.
Miss Universe Organization president, Raul Rocha, expressed frustration and hinted at selling his stake amidst the mounting controversies. The unfolding drama has prompted contestants like Miss Côte d’Ivoire and Miss Estonia to relinquish their titles, citing conflicts with the organization’s values.
The controversies have led to further revelations, with allegations of voting irregularities, favoritism, and mistreatment within the pageant. Miss Universe Portugal and Miss Haiti have spoken out about their negative experiences, hinting at deeper issues within the organization.
The situation escalated with the issuance of arrest warrants for the pageant co-owners in Thailand and Mexico. The Miss Universe Organization is now at a critical juncture, facing scrutiny and calls for transparency and accountability to address the concerns raised by participants and stakeholders.