Miss Universe 2025 controversy: A timeline of events, from public confrontation with organisers to participants staging a walkout

The timing proved critical. Behind the scenes, tension had been mounting between MUO President Raúl Rocha Cantú and Nawat Itsaragrisil, the Thai executive who served as both president of Miss Grand International and vice president for Asia and Oceania within the Miss Universe Organisation at the time.

November 2, 2025

The pageant begins, and tensions simmer

More than 120 candidates arrived in Thailand for the 74th Miss Universe Competition, receiving a warm Thai welcome at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The delegates began their journey with fittings, photoshoots, and registration at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside in Bangkok.

But behind the glamorous welcome, tensions were already brewing. Nawat Itsaragrisil, the national director of Miss Universe Thailand and executive director of the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO), encouraged pageant fans to vote for contestants in a special dinner and talk show. However, MUO quickly issued a statement declaring that any event not announced through their verified channels was unauthorised.

 

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Miss Universe Thailand responded by asserting that “as the officially licensed host organisation, we hold the rights to manage and execute such promotional activities within our territory.”

The rift between Nawat and the main Miss Universe Organisation was becoming public.

November 3, 2025 

The confrontation that went viral

The crisis reached its breaking point during what should have been a celebratory sashing ceremony at the delegates’ hotel.

The incident unfolded during a sashing ceremony held at the delegates’ hotel, where Nawat, publicly questioned Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch’s absence from a sponsor shoot. Nawat allegedly called the Mexican model a “dumb head.”

Videos have been circulating online where Bosch can be heard saying, “We respect you, just as you should respect us. I’m here representing my country, and it’s not my fault you have problems with my organisation.” Nawat responded, “No, you must listen to me first, then argue with me.”

The exchange resulted in Bosch as well as several others, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, exiting the room, expressing to pageant media stationed outside her dismay with how the situation was handled. “We have respect for everyone, but this is not how things should be handled; to trash another girl is beyond disrespectful.”.

As women stood to leave, Nawat was heard saying, “Stop. Security.”

Outside the venue, Bosch addressed local Thai media, delivering a powerful message of dignity and empowerment. “I love Thailand. I respect your people and your culture deeply,” she said. “But what your director just did was not respectful. He called me dumb because he has issues with the organisation. That’s not fair. I’m here doing my best, being kind to everyone. He just attacked me and told me to shut up. The world needs to see this because we are empowered women, and no one should silence our voices.”

November 4, 2025

Nawat issues an apology

In a livestream posted to his social media accounts, Nawat issued an apology. Speaking in Thai, he said, “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologize to everyone. I especially apologised to the girls who were present, around 75 of them.”

He also mentioned that no representatives from the international organization were currently in the country, adding that Mario Búcaro, Miss Universe’s CEO, “is very kind and will fly in tomorrow since I need someone fully authorized to work with me. That will make things easier and keep us aligned.”

 

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What began as a confrontation over sponsor obligations has become a referendum on power, respect, and the treatment of women in one of the world’s most visible platforms. For many watching, this controversy represents a long-overdue reckoning, a moment when contestants refused to be silenced, when dignity mattered more than a crown, and when the world took notice.

MUO releases an official statement

The Miss Universe Organisation released a statement condemning the incident: “The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to ensure the continued success of the 74th Miss Universe competition. Together, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of respect, safety, and integrity for all participants, staff, and stakeholders. A high-level delegation, led by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mario Búcaro, is traveling to Thailand to strengthen collaboration with the host country, MGI, and relevant authorities.”

It added, “This mission aims to coordinate efforts, ensure a secure and professional environment for all delegates, and reaffirm MUO’s commitment to transparency, respect, and unity. All scheduled events and activities will continue as planned, in full cooperation with the host country and MGl, reaffirming our shared goal of delivering an exceptional global celebration that reflects the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion that define the Miss Universe legacy.The Miss Universe Organization remains steadfast in its mission to promote collaboration, respect, and opportunity for women around the world, working hand in hand with all partners to ensure a safe, inspiring, and memorable experience for every.”

 

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This year, Manika Vishwakarma from Rajasthan is set to represent India at the global 74th Miss Universe competition to be in Thailand on November 21.