Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, has won the 2025 Miss Universe crown in Thailand after a week loaded with drama, public accusations and setbacks behind the scenes.
Bosch was announced winner on Friday in Nonthaburi, Thailand, defeating contestants from the Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Thailand and Venezuela. No fewer than 120 women participated in this year’s pageant, one of the world’s biggest beauty contests.
However, the road to the crown was anything but smooth.
Earlier this month, Bosch walked out of a meeting after the pageant organiser, Nawat Itsaragrisil, openly scolded her for allegedly failing to post promotional content. In a livestream of the meeting, Nawat appeared to single her out, leading to a tense confrontation.
“What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb,” Bosch later told journalists. “The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.”
Her walkout, done in an evening gown and heels, was supported by Miss Iraq, while other contestants briefly attempted to join before Nawat warned them to remain seated. Nawat later issued an apology.
The incident even caught the attention of Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch as “an example of how we women should speak out” when confronted with aggression.
More controversy followed in the days leading up to the final. Two judges resigned this week, with French composer Omar Harfouch claiming the contest was manipulated through a “secret and illegitimate vote.” The Miss Universe Organisation denied the allegation, saying no extra jury was created. Former footballer Claude Makelele also withdrew, citing personal reasons.
There were also safety scares. During Wednesday’s costume round, Miss Britain Danielle Latimer tripped and fell on stage. Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry was taken to hospital after falling off the main stage during the evening gown segment. She was later reported to be “resting under medical observation” with no serious injuries.
