Miss Mexico Crowned Miss Universe 2025 After Backstage Drama and Host Controversy

Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Nonthaburi, Thailand, on Friday, triumphing in a contest overshadowed by dramatic backstage incidents and a public dispute involving a pageant organiser

Bosch emerged victorious over finalists from Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Thailand and Venezuela, selected from more than 120 contestants competing in one of the world’s top global beauty pageants

However, the crowning moment followed days of turmoil, beginning with allegations that Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil had publicly insulted Bosch during a preparatory meeting

The incident led Bosch, accompanied by Miss Iraq, to walk out after Nawat reprimanded her for allegedly failing to post promotional content on social media

Bosch later told reporters that Nawat had called her “dumb,” sparking widespread criticism online and inspiring several contestants to briefly join her in protest before Nawat ordered those intending to continue in the contest to sit down

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum weighed in on the controversy, praising Bosch as “an example of how women should speak out” against disrespect and aggression. Nawat has since issued an apology

As the competition progressed, additional setbacks hit the pageant. Two judges quit earlier this week, with French composer Omar Harfouch alleging that organisers had conducted a “secret and illegitimate vote”

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The Miss Universe Organization denied the claims, insisting no unofficial jury had been formed. Former footballer Claude Makelele also stepped down for personal reasons

The event was further marred by onstage mishaps. Miss Britain Danielle Latimer fell during the costume round, while Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry suffered a fall from the main stage and was hospitalised. Officials confirmed she was resting under observation with no serious injuries

Despite the controversies, celebrations erupted across Mexico. In Bosch’s hometown of Villahermosa, thousands gathered at a baseball stadium to watch the competition live, cheering and chanting “Mexico! Mexico!” as fireworks lit the sky when she was crowned

Bosch’s win marks a significant moment for the pageant, shining through a week filled with drama, protests and organisational challenges

Writer : Mweru Mbugua