The 74th Miss Universe pageant concluded on 21 November 2025, crowning Mexico's Fatima Bosch as the winner following one of the most turbulent seasons in the competition's history. The event, marked by resignations, walkouts, and viral controversies, saw Nigeria's representative Onyinyechi Basil compete on the global stage.
A Crown Forged in Controversy
Fatima Bosch, a 25-year-old humanitarian volunteer, received the crown from Denmark's outgoing queen Victoria Kjær Theilvig amid unprecedented drama. Her victory came weeks after a viral confrontation where Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly insulted her, calling her a "dumbhead" during a meeting. The incident sparked walkouts from fellow contestants and drew condemnation from Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch's dignified response.
The controversy prompted the Miss Universe Organisation to reduce Nawat's involvement after he tearfully apologized, claiming he was misunderstood. This incident set the tone for a season where off-stage drama often overshadowed the pageant itself.
The Final Night Unfolds
Despite the chaotic buildup, the finale in Thailand delivered spectacular production with brilliant lighting, live performances, and 120 delegates competing. After rigorous rounds, the competition narrowed to 30 contestants, then 12, and finally the top 5:
- Mexico – Fatima Bosch (Winner)
- Thailand – Praveenar Singh (1st Runner-Up)
- Venezuela – Stephany Abasali
- Philippines – Ahtisa Manalo
- Ivory Coast – Olivia Yacé
During the final question round, contestants were asked what global issue they'd address at the United Nations. Bosch's answer focusing on self-worth and authenticity resonated deeply with judges and audiences alike. "Believe in the power of your authenticity," she stated. "Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth."
Beyond the Crown: The Season's Multiple Controversies
The 2025 Miss Universe competition faced numerous challenges that threatened to derail the event:
Judicial Drama: Two judges—composer Omar Harfouch and former French footballer Claude Makélélé—resigned days before the finale. Harfouch alleged the competition was "pre-rigged," claims the organisation strongly denied.
Political Tensions: The pageant saw historic participation from Palestine's first representative, Nadeen Ayoub, who reached the top 30. Her gown featuring Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock and tensions with Miss Israel highlighted how global politics influenced the event.
Additional Incidents: Miss Universe 1996 Alicia Machado faced backlash for racist comments, Miss Chile apologized for a controversial TikTok video, and both Miss Jamaica and Miss Great Britain suffered falls during preliminary rounds, with one requiring hospitalization.
The leadership itself underwent changes as Thai billionaire Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip stepped down earlier in the year, with Mario Búcaro taking over as CEO shortly before contestants arrived.
Looking Forward
The Miss Universe Organisation now faces increased pressure to ensure transparency and contestant welfare ahead of the 2026 competition in Puerto Rico. Bosch's composure throughout the controversies has sparked important conversations about treatment of women in pageantry, setting higher expectations for future editions.
Despite the season's turbulence, Fatima Bosch's victory demonstrates that grace under pressure ultimately triumphs, providing an inspiring conclusion to one of Miss Universe's most memorable chapters.
