Miss Mexico was crowned Miss Universe in Thailand on Friday, securing the title after a turbulent week marked by public criticism, backstage conflicts, and unexpected mishaps leading up to the finale.
Contestants from the Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Thailand, and Venezuela joined her in the last round, chosen from over 120 participants competing in one of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants.
Before Fatima Bosch of Mexico received the crown, the event was overshadowed by drama—ranging from accusations of disrespect toward her, to judges resigning, and several contestants suffering on-stage mishaps.
Bosch became a focal point earlier in the competition when she abruptly left a meeting—fully dressed in an evening gown—after Thai organiser Nawat Itsaragrisil appeared to call her out for not posting promotional material online. In a livestream, he seemed to single her out, leading to Bosch walking out with Miss Iraq by her side. Several contestants initially stood with her in support but quickly hesitated as Nawat warned participants that those wishing to continue should remain seated.
“What your director did was disrespectful—he called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters. “Women should not stay silent. This platform exists so our voices can be heard.” Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum later praised Bosch for standing up for herself. Nawat eventually apologised.
More upheaval came when two judges stepped down shortly before the final. One of them, French composer Omar Harfouch, claimed the contest was compromised by a “secret and illegitimate vote” conducted without the authorised judging panel. The Miss Universe Organisation denied the accusation, stating no such unofficial voting took place. Former football star Claude Makelele also withdrew, citing personal reasons.
The competition week also saw physical mishaps: Miss Britain Danielle Latimer stumbled and fell during the costume event, while Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry was hospitalised after stepping off the stage during the evening gown segment. According to Miss Universe president Raul Rocha, she remained under medical observation but did not sustain serious injuries. Further updates on her condition were not provided.
