Fatima Bosch Wins Miss Universe 2025 After Scandal-Filled Pageant

In a stunning turn of events at the Miss Universe 2025 finale in Bangkok, Mexico's Fátima Bosch Fernández was crowned the 74th Miss Universe, capping off a pageant season defined by unprecedented controversy. The 25-year-old's victory follows a dramatic saga involving public confrontations, judge resignations, and allegations of organizational misconduct.

The Walkout That Made Headlines

Bosch's journey to the crown began with a bold stand against pageant organizers. During a pre-ceremony event in early November, Thai media mogul and co-owner Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated Bosch in front of dozens of contestants for failing to post promotional content on social media. When she objected, Itsaragrisil called security and threatened to disqualify contestants who supported her.

Unwilling to endure the humiliation, Bosch walked out of the event, declaring, "If it takes away your dignity, you need to go." Her action sparked an international solidarity movement, with fellow contestants including last year's Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark joining her in protest. The incident drew condemnation from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch as "an example of how women should raise our voices."

Mounting Controversy

The walkout was only the beginning of the pageant's troubles. Just a week later, two judges resigned amid explosive allegations. Lebanese-French composer Omar Harfouch claimed organizers had pre-selected finalists through a "secret vote" by an unofficial jury, threatening legal action against the Miss Universe Organization. Former French football star Claude Makélélé also stepped down, citing "unforeseen personal reasons."

The Miss Universe Organization vehemently denied Harfouch's rigging claims, stating that "no external group has been authorized to evaluate delegates." Meanwhile, the competition was further disrupted when Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry suffered a terrifying fall off the stage during a preliminary gown competition. She was rushed to the hospital but later confirmed to have no broken bones.

A Triumphant Victory

Despite the chaos, Bosch delivered a performance that captivated judges and audiences alike. In a historic moment in Bangkok, she was crowned Miss Universe, becoming Mexico's fourth titleholder. Thailand's Praveenar Singh was named first runner-up, followed by Venezuela's Stephany Abasali in third place. The Philippines' Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Côte d'Ivoire's Olivia Yace completed the top five.

"Her grace, strength, and radiant spirit captured the hearts of the world," the Miss Universe Organization stated in a post-crowning announcement. Yet Bosch's win instantly sparked debate online, with some questioning whether organizers awarded her the crown to quell the scandal. "Next year, whoever walks out will win," one viral comment read.

Leadership Turmoil

The controversy underscores deeper issues within the pageant's leadership structure. Following Thai owner Anne Jakrajutatip's resignation in 2023—amid her company's bankruptcy—the Miss Universe Organization faces a "very rocky transition" with divided authority between Thai and Mexican executives.

Analysts point to cultural clashes and unclear command as major vulnerabilities. "For fans and outsiders, it's very confusing. No one knows who the real leaders are," former Miss Universe president Paula Shugart told the BBC. As the organization grapples with declining relevance and audience, Bosch's victory—while personally triumphant—arrives at a critical juncture for the 72-year-old institution.

"We women look more beautiful when we raise our voice and participate, because that has to do with the recognition of our rights." — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum

What's Next for Miss Universe?

Bosch's reign begins amid calls for organizational reform. The Miss Universe Organization faces pressure to address the leadership vacuum and restore transparency, particularly after the rigging allegations. Meanwhile, Bosch has vowed to leverage her platform for women's rights, stating, "I came here to be a voice for all the women and girls who fight for causes."

As the dust settles in Bangkok, all eyes are on whether this scandal-plagued pageant can reclaim its prestige—or if the turbulence will continue to overshadow its crown jewel moments.