Mexico’s Fátima Bosch Fernández Claims Miss Universe 2025 Crown After Confronting Pageant Bullying
BANGKOK — Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday, securing a decisive and emotional victory in Bangkok after a turbulent competition overshadowed by public bullying from one of the pageant’s hosts. The 25-year-old fashion designer emerged not only as the winner but as the symbol of this year’s dramatic and highly scrutinized 74th Miss Universe edition.
Her win set off an eruption of cheers inside the packed arena, where Mexican flags waved in celebration as Bosch fought back tears.
Following the coronation, Bosch told reporters she hoped to be remembered as someone who helped “reshape the prototype of what a Miss Universe is — a real person who leads with heart.”
She praised the contest for offering a platform where “women are searching to have a voice,” underscoring the emotional weight of her journey to the crown.
A Pageant Shaken by Confrontation
The controversy began earlier this month during a livestreamed sashing ceremony, when Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil sharply reprimanded Bosch for allegedly failing to follow promotional guidelines. When Bosch defended herself, he escalated the moment by calling security, sparking shock among contestants and viewers.
Bosch walked out of the room. Several contestants followed, including Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, in a public display of solidarity.
“What your director did is not respectful. He called me dumb,” Bosch told Thai reporters outside the room. “If it takes away your dignity, you need to go.”
Nawat later denied using the word “dumb.”
The Miss Universe Organization’s president, Raúl Rocha Cantú, issued a firm statement condemning the incident as “public aggression” and “serious abuse.”
Even Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first woman president, spoke up, praising Bosch for responding “with dignity” and calling her stance a model for women everywhere.
“Women don’t look more beautiful when we stay quiet,” Sheinbaum said. “We look more beautiful when we raise our voices and defend our rights.”
A Tearful Apology — And More Turmoil
Under mounting pressure, Nawat eventually apologized to the contestants. Appearing emotional yet defiant, he told them: “If anyone was affected, I am so sorry,” before abruptly ending with, “It’s passed. OK? Are you happy?”
The pageant faced additional turbulence after reports that two judges quit mid-competition, with one implying there were attempts to influence results — an allegation the organization denied. Thai police also launched an investigation into the alleged promotion of illegal online casinos tied to event marketing.
Despite the chaos, the show moved forward, and Bosch’s strong public stance only amplified global support for her.
Top Results and Finalists
Rounding out this year’s top placements were:
- 1st Runner-Up: Praveenar Singh, Thailand (29)
- 2nd Runner-Up: Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, Venezuela (25)
- 4th Place: Ahtisa Manalo, Philippines (28)
- 5th Place: Olivia Yacé, Ivory Coast (27)
The event wasn’t without lighthearted mishaps either. Midweek, Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, slipped off the stage during the evening gown segment. She was not seriously injured.
Who Is Fátima Bosch Fernández?
Bosch’s Miss Universe biography outlines a background rooted in fashion and sustainability, with studies in Mexico and Italy. She has created designs using discarded materials, volunteered with sick children, and worked on environmental advocacy, migrant support programs, and mental health initiatives.
Her victory places her at the forefront of global conversations about women’s rights, dignity, and representation — themes that overshadowed the competition and ultimately defined her path to the crown.
Miss Universe 2025 will be remembered not only for its drama, but for the contestant who refused to stay silent.
