The 74th Miss Universe pageant began with controversy as a heated debate erupted between contestants and hosts, including Miss Universe Thailand’s national director, just before the ceremonial sashing of candidates, Philstar Global reported.
The event faced turmoil due to conflicting messages from the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) and Miss Universe Thailand (MUT), despite Nawat Itsaragrisil, MUT’s national director, being part of MUO’s executive team.
MUO criticized a “Special Dinner & Talk Show” promoted by MUT, calling it unsanctioned, but MUT claimed it was part of their marketing efforts, which hosts can manage. All Miss Universe 2025 queens had arrived in Thailand, ready to start pre-pageant events with the Sashing Ceremony, Philstar Global noted.
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Before proceedings began, Nawat addressed the queens to defend MUT’s legal promotional activities, also mentioning issues like candidates skipping promo shoots and sponsors linked to illegal online casinos in Thailand.
Nawat asked contestants who disagreed with MUT’s promo plans to raise their hands.
When no one responded, Nawat singled out Mexico’s Fatima Bosch, Philstar Global reported.
The ‘you’re dumb’ comment
Nawat claimed his staff reported that Fatima was instructed by her national director not to promote Thailand, prompting Fatima to clarify.
Fatima agreed to follow Nawat’s directives, but Nawat stated that Mexico’s national director had been “expelled from the country.”
“It’s disrespectful to follow your national director’s orders blindly; it makes you dumb,” Nawat said, according to Philstar Global.
Minutes later, Fatima sought further clarification, irritating Nawat, who insisted he was still speaking.
“I’m addressing everyone. Why interrupt?” Nawat asked. Fatima responded, “I have a voice,” but Nawat interjected, “Yes, but respect is important.”
“You’re not respecting me as a woman,” Fatima countered, prompting Nawat to ask security to escort her out, causing audible reactions from other contestants.
From the back, Fatima asserted, “As women, we deserve respect. I’m here for my country; your issues with my organization are not my fault,” as quoted by Philstar Global.
Contestant walkout
This incident led reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig to leave the room, expressing to media her dissatisfaction with the situation.
“Respect is key, and this behavior is unacceptable,” Victoria stated before departing, according to Philstar Global.
Inside, some candidates followed Victoria despite Nawat’s pleas to remain seated.
Nawat instructed, “Sit down. Continue the contest if you stay seated. If you leave, others will proceed.”
Fatima, joined by Iraq’s Hanin Al Qoreishy, expressed admiration for Thai people but condemned Nawat’s “dumb” remark.
“This platform empowers us, and the world must see this. We will not be silenced,” Fatima said, quoted by Philstar Global.
Coincidentally, the Philippines last won in 2018, with Thailand hosting and Ahtisa’s batchmate Catriona Gray claiming the title.
The apology
Later, Itsaragrisil attempted damage control at a press conference, issuing an apology.
“I meant no harm and respect all of you. I’m sorry this occurred,” he stated, according to ABS CBN. “I apologize if any delegates felt uneasy… I’m truly sorry.”
He denied making abusive remarks. “I didn’t use offensive language,” he claimed. “Misinterpretations are spreading.”
