Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch celebrates winning the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 21, 2025. Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP via Getty Images
Thailand served as this year’s host nation and welcomed thousands of visiting fans. Organizers highlighted the country’s longstanding pageant culture.
Fatima Bosch Leads Global Field in High-Stakes Competition
Fatima Bosch became a crowd favorite early in the competition. Observers attributed her popularity to her advocacy work and public composure.
The top five finalists included Thailand’s Praveenar Singh and Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali. Contestants from the Philippines and Ivory Coast also reached the final group.
Miss Universe is widely recognized for its high production standards. Delegates undergo extensive preparation to represent their countries.
American host Steve Byrne presided over the finale on Friday. The opening number featured Thai singer Jeff Satur.
Fatima Bosch and Her Statement on Authenticity
Finalists were questioned on global issues and social advocacy during the last round. Bosch focused her answer on personal empowerment.
“Believe in the power of your authenticity,” she told the judges. She encouraged young women to value their abilities and aspirations.
Contestants advanced through swimwear, evening gown, and interview segments. Judges evaluated poise, communication, and public presence.
The Miss Universe Organization said contestants spent three weeks in local rehearsals. Delegates also participated in outreach events and cultural tours.
Global Participation Marks Milestone for Miss Universe
This year’s roster included the first representative from Palestinian communities. Nadeen Ayoub reached the top 30 before she was eliminated.
Her participation was noted by international commentators. They said her presence marked an inclusion milestone.
The national costume showcase featured elaborate presentations on Wednesday. Delegates wore outfits inspired by significant cultural symbols.
Miss USA Audrey Eckert paid tribute to the bald eagle with a dramatic costume. Designer Simon Villalba created the feathered structure.
Preliminaries See Injuries and Viral Moments
Jamaica’s Gabrielle Henry fell during the evening gown preliminaries on Wednesday. She was carried off-stage by medical responders.
Miss Universe President Raul Rocha said she was “under good care.” He confirmed she had no fractures following the incident.
Social media videos of her fall circulated widely. The Miss Universe Organization acknowledged the incident in a public update.
Rocha praised Henry’s resilience in a brief statement. The organization said she remained part of the event’s proceedings.
Pageant Turmoil Placed Spotlight on Fatima Bosch
The pageant drew criticism after a contentious meeting earlier in the month. Footage showed Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil berating Bosch.
Nawat accused Bosch of insufficient promotional activity. He denied calling her a “dumbhead” and said he accused her of causing “damage.”
Contestants walked out of the meeting after Bosch was escorted out by security. Delegates expressed solidarity through coordinated exits.
The incident gained attention from Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum. She described the exchange as an “aggression” handled with “dignity.”
Miss Universe Organization Responds to Global Outcry
The Miss Universe Organization condemned the conduct seen in the video. It announced a reduction of Nawat’s involvement in the event.
Nawat apologized during a public welcome ceremony. He declined further comment when contacted by reporters.
Alicia Machado, Miss Universe 1996, faced backlash after a separate controversy. She was criticized for racially insensitive comments online.
Her representative did not respond to media requests. Organizers acknowledged public concerns regarding the remarks.
Judging Controversy Unfolds Days Before Finale
Two judges stepped down shortly before coronation night. The resignations triggered widespread speculation within pageant circles.
Composer Omar Harfouch said on Instagram that he resigned from the panel. He claimed an unauthorized panel had pre-selected finalists.
“I could not stand before the public and television cameras, pretending to legitimize a vote I never took part in,” he stated. His comment prompted significant discussion online.
The Miss Universe Organization denied his allegation in a written statement. Officials said Harfouch’s claims mischaracterized the process.
Organization Asserts Transparency Protocols
The organization said all evaluations followed established procedures. It rejected assertions of secret judging groups.
Officials said no external parties were authorized to rank contestants. They emphasized adherence to supervisory protocols.
A second judge, former French footballer Claude Makélélé, also resigned. He cited personal reasons in a concise Instagram update.
Makélélé expressed respect for the Miss Universe brand. He did not comment further on the situation.
Leadership Shifts and Future Host Planning
The Miss Universe Organization underwent leadership changes this year. Thai entrepreneur Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip stepped down in June.
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Mario Búcaro was appointed CEO in late October. Delegates arrived days after he assumed the role.
Jakkaphong purchased the organization for $20 million in 2022. Her company filed for bankruptcy the following year.
The Miss Universe Organization confirmed that next year’s contest will be held in Puerto Rico. Officials said planning is already underway.
