Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned Miss Universe 2025, triumphing in a competition overshadowed by controversy and internal drama. The 25-year-old humanitarian and volunteer emerged as a fan favorite after a public clash with a Thai pageant director sparked a walkout by fellow contestants.
Bosch received the crown from last year’s winner, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, during Friday’s finale in Nonthaburi, Thailand. The event, often described as the “Super Bowl” of beauty pageants, drew millions of viewers worldwide and featured representatives from 120 countries.
Thailand’s Praveenar Singh finished as runner-up, while Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali, the Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo, and Ivory Coast’s Olivia Yacé rounded out the top five. In a historic first, Nadeen Ayoub represented the Palestinian people, advancing to the semifinal round of 30 before being eliminated.
The finale, hosted by American comedian Steve Byrne and opened by Thai singer Jeff Satur, followed weeks of rehearsals and cultural showcases. Contestants competed in swimwear, evening gown, and national costume rounds, with Miss USA Audrey Eckert drawing attention for her elaborate bald eagle ensemble.
Bosch impressed judges with her message of empowerment, telling the audience: “Believe in the power of your authenticity. Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth.”
This year’s pageant was marked by turbulence. At a pre-pageant meeting, Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil berated Bosch for not posting promotional content, allegedly calling her a “dumbhead.” Bosch resisted the remarks, prompting Nawat to call security. Contestants walked out in solidarity, and the incident drew condemnation from Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch’s composure.
The Miss Universe Organization later restricted Nawat’s role and issued a statement condemning his behavior. Nawat apologized but declined further comment.
Additional controversy erupted when former Miss Universe Alicia Machado made racist remarks in a livestream discussing the incident, sparking backlash online.
Meanwhile, two judges resigned days before the finale. Composer Omar Harfouch alleged the contest was rigged, claiming an “impromptu” panel had pre-selected semifinalists. The organization rejected his claims as a mischaracterization of the judging process. Former French soccer star Claude Makélélé also stepped down, citing personal reasons.
The competition unfolded under new leadership after Thai media tycoon Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip stepped down in June. Mario Búcaro was appointed CEO in October, just before delegates arrived. Jakkaphong, a transgender rights advocate, had purchased the organization in 2022 for $20 million, but her company later filed for bankruptcy.
Despite the controversies, the pageant concluded with Bosch’s victory celebrated by fans across Mexico and beyond. The next Miss Universe competition is scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico in 2026.