Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch has been crowned the new Miss Universe in Bangkok, ending a contest marked by walkouts, resignations, and claims of unfair play.
The 25-year-old became the centre of global attention earlier in November after she walked out of a pre-event session when Thai pageant organiser Nawat Itsaragrasil scolded her in front of other contestants for not posting promotional content.
When she protested, he threatened to disqualify anyone who supported her, prompting several contestants to join her in leaving the room.
Her decision drew wide praise, including from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who called her an example of how women should speak up in uncomfortable situations.
Bosch’s victory on Friday has now split opinions online. While many Mexicans celebrated the win and applauded her earlier stand, others questioned whether the crown was given to calm the scandals that have overshadowed the competition.
Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh finished as first runner-up, followed by Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali. Miss Philippines Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d’Ivoire Olivia Yace completed the top five.
The Miss Universe Organization praised Bosch, saying her grace and strength won global admiration. On his part, organiser Nawat posted a short message in Thai, saying “A billion words that cannot be said”, and told reporters “As for the outcome, we leave it to the viewers at home to judge.”
The drama stretched beyond Bosch’s walkout. A week later, two judges resigned. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch quit the panel, claiming finalists had been pre-selected before the live show. Former French footballer Claude Makelele also pulled out, citing personal reasons. Harfouch repeated his rigging claims shortly after Bosch was crowned. The Miss Universe Organization dismissed the allegations, insisting no external group was allowed to pick finalists.
There was also concern for Miss Jamaica after she slipped and fell during the preliminary gown round. She was stretchered out and taken to hospital, with organisers later saying she suffered no broken bones.
This year’s edition comes as Miss Universe faces questions about relevance and leadership. The pageant is now split between its Thai host team and its Mexican management, creating confusion among fans. Paula Shugart, the former Miss Universe president, said the unclear leadership was hurting the brand, adding “Miss Universe is worthless if you don’t empower and support the women who compete.”
Despite the turbulence, Bosch’s win marks Mexico’s fourth Miss Universe crown. The new queen takes over at a time the organisation is trying to move from a traditional TV show to a digital-first brand with strong TikTok and Instagram presence.
