The Miss Universe Organization has crowned its newest winner. On Thursday, Nov. 20, Fátima Bosch of Mexico claimed the title during the 74th Miss Universe final, held at Bangkok’s Impact Challenger Hall. Contestants from over 130 countries competed under this year’s theme, “The Power of Love.”
Bosch’s victory comes at the end of a turbulent period for the pageant, which has faced multiple controversies in the weeks leading up to the grand finale.
Livestream Incident Sparks Backlash
On Nov. 4, a livestream captured pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil scolding Bosch for allegedly refusing to participate in a planned social media photoshoot. Bosch denied the accusation but ultimately walked out of the room—followed by several contestants in a show of solidarity.
In a subsequent media interview circulated by pageantry_com and tgpc_official, Bosch claimed, “Your director is not respectful. He called me dumb.”
Miss Universe Organization president Raul Rocha Cantu later issued a video statement expressing “solidarity and support” for all contestants, adding that Nawat had forgotten “the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host.”
Judging Panel Controversy Deepens
Just days before the competition, selection committee judge Omar Harfouch resigned, alleging the existence of an “impromptu jury” formed to secretly choose 30 finalists from the 136 participating nations. Harfouch claimed none of the official eight judges were present during the supposed selection session and said he learned about it through social media.
He further alleged potential conflicts of interest, stating that some individuals on the unofficial panel had personal ties to certain contestants, including those responsible for counting votes.
The Miss Universe Organization swiftly denied the claims, stating that no unauthorized judging groups exist and that all evaluations follow established, transparent MUO protocols.
More Judges Step Down
The turmoil continued when former French soccer star Claude Makélélé stepped down from his judging role for personal reasons. The next day, Princess Camilla di Borbone delle Due Sicilie, president of the Miss Universe selection committee, also withdrew.
Several judges were later added, including former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova—who previously coached Jaime VandenBerg, this year’s Miss Canada, raising further questions about impartiality.
A New Queen Takes the Crown
Despite the controversies, Bosch’s crowning marked a milestone moment for Mexico on the global pageant stage. She succeeded Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig, who became the first-ever Danish Miss Universe after winning the 73rd edition last year.
Theilvig, 21, passed the tiara to Bosch, continuing the pageant’s tradition of celebrating international beauty, culture, and advocacy—even amid one of the most turbulent seasons in its history.