Fátima Bosche of Mexico Crowned Miss Universe 2025
The Impact Challenger Hall in Thailand was filled with a mix of cheers and boos on Friday, November 21, 2025, as Fátima Bosche from Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025. Her victory marked the climax of what many are calling one of the most controversial editions in the pageant's long history.
Bosche triumphed over 119 other candidates from across the globe, succeeding the previous titleholder, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark. The new first runner-up is Praveenar Singh of Thailand. Completing the prestigious top five were Stephany Abasali of Venezuela, Ahtisa Manalo of the Philippines, and Olivia Yacé of Côte d'Ivoire.
A Message of Authenticity and Empowerment
During the critical final question-and-answer segment, Bosche shared a powerful message that likely resonated with the judges and global audience. "As Miss Universe, I will say to them: believe in the power of your authenticity. Believe in yourself," she stated. "Your dreams matter, your heart matters. And never let anyone make you doubt your worth, because you are worth everything, and you are powerful, and your voice needs to be heard."
Pre-Pageant Clash Goes Viral
The road to the crown was not smooth for Bosche. She drew significant attention before the final night due to a public disagreement with Thai pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil. Nawat claimed she had missed a scheduled activity and questioned her professionalism. Reports circulated that he called her a "dumbhead," though Nawat later insisted he had used the word "damaged."
In a moment that was captured on video and spread rapidly online, Bosche was escorted out of an activity after Nawat told her to be quiet while she attempted to explain her side. Her firm response to the media, "I have a voice," became a rallying cry for her supporters and highlighted the tension behind the scenes.
A Pageant Marred by Multiple Controversies
The 2025 Miss Universe competition was shadowed by several issues even before the coronation night. Miss Universe Thailand organizers faced an intellectual property dispute after planning an unauthorized "Special Dinner and Talk Show," which the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) forced to be canceled on November 6.
Further scandal emerged when contestants were allegedly asked to participate in filming promotions for online gambling sites. The credibility of the competition was also shaken when several high-profile judges, including Omar Harfouch, Claude Makélélé, and Princess Camilla di Borbone delle Due Sicilie, resigned. Their departures were linked to allegations of irregularities in the finalist selection process and personal reasons, forcing a last-minute adjustment to the final jury panel.
Voting for the People’s Choice award also sparked outrage when it was extended without prior notice. This led to a sudden, suspicious surge in votes for Paraguay, prompting fans to demand greater transparency and fairness from the organization.
Online, debates flared over whether the most deserving candidate had won, with many viewers arguing that other contestants who placed lower had delivered stronger answers and more compelling stage performances.
The event was hosted by American comedian and actor Steve Byrne, with commentary provided by Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres and Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel. A performance by artist Jeff Satur provided entertainment during the globally watched spectacle.
