Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch has been crowned Miss Universe at a ceremony in Bangkok, marking the end of an exceptionally scandal-filled pageant season.
The 25-year-old contestant had walked out of an event earlier in November after a Thai official publicly berated her in front of dozens of contestants and threatened to disqualify those who supported her.
That dramatic turn was followed a week later by the resignation of two judges, one of whom accused organizers of rigging the competition.
These events come as one of the world's longest-running beauty pageants faces questions about its relevance and a declining audience.
The contest's latest result has added to the controversy, with news of Miss Mexico's win dividing opinion online.
Many Mexicans celebrated her victory, especially those who had applauded her walkout, but some have speculated that the organizers gave her the crown to make up for earlier scandals.
Miss Thailand Praveenar Singh placed first runner-up, while Miss Venezuela Stephany Abasali placed third, followed by Miss Philippines Ma Ahtisa Manalo and Miss Cote d'Ivoire Olivia Yace.
Drama in Bangkok
Things took a dramatic turn at a pre-pageant ceremony early this month, when Thai media mogul and pageant organizer Mr. Nawat Itsaragrasil reprimanded Ms. Bosch for failing to post promotional content. When she objected, he called security and threatened to disqualify those supporting her. Ms. Bosch then left the room, prompting others to join her in solidarity, a move that made headlines worldwide.
The Miss Universe Organization condemned Mr. Nawat's behavior as 'malicious,' and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised Ms. Bosch as an 'example of how we women should speak out' in the face of aggression.
During Friday's finals, Mr. Nawat posted photos from the audience on his Instagram but was not seen on stage. After Ms. Bosch's crowning, he stated vaguely on social media, leaving critics to speculate on his reaction to the results.
Turbulence at the Top
The recent controversies highlight the cultural and strategic differences between Miss Universe's Thai and Mexican ownership. The events have resulted in a 'very rocky transition' and a leadership structure that has become confusing for fans, diminishing the brand's identity.
Despite the turbulence, Fatima Bosch's crowning may signal a new direction for the Miss Universe Organization, as they seek to stay relevant in an age when social media influences beauty standards and reaches a broad audience.
The contest remains immensely popular in Latin America and Southeast Asia, providing a path to celebrity for young women. However, criticisms persist regarding the sexual objectification of women, pushing organizers to adapt the pageant to contemporary values.
As the Miss Universe Organization aims to redefine its role and ensure empowerment, the future of the pageant remains a subject of intense speculation and interest.
