Miss Universe 2025 sparks controversy after Thai director calls Miss Mexico 'dumb' during sashing ceremony

The 74th Miss Universe pageant began with controversy in Thailand after a tense exchange erupted between Miss Universe Thailand (MUT) national director Nawat Itsaragrisil and Miss Universe Mexico 2025, Fátima Bosch, during what was supposed to be a ceremonial sashing event on Tuesday, Philstar Global reported.

The incident unfolded amid confusion between the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) and Miss Universe Thailand, which is co-hosting the pageant.

MUO had earlier disowned a “Special Dinner & Talk Show” promoted by MUT, calling it unsanctioned, while MUT insisted the activity was part of its approved marketing initiatives.

All contestants had gathered for the sashing ceremony, marking the start of pre-pageant activities, when Nawat addressed the group.

He defended MUT’s promotional activities, reminded the contestants of their obligations, and raised issues including participation in promotional shoots and alleged ties to illegal online casino sponsors.

During the speech, Nawat asked anyone who disagreed with MUT’s promotional plans to raise their hands.

When no one did, he called out Miss Mexico, claiming he’d received reports that her national director instructed her not to promote Thailand.

Fátima clarified that she was willing to cooperate, but Nawat accused her national director of being “kicked out of the country.”

“It’s not polite, it’s not good… if you follow orders from your national director, you are dumb,” Nawat was quoted as saying.

Fátima later stood up to clarify her side, which appeared to irritate Nawat.

“I’m still talking to everybody. Why are you standing up to talk to me?” he asked.

“Because I have a voice…” Fátima replied, before Nawat cut her off: “Yes, you have a voice, but you have to respect.”

“But you are not respecting me as a woman,” Fátima responded.

Moments later, Nawat called security to escort her out of the room, prompting gasps from other candidates. As she exited, Fátima said:

“As women, we deserve respect. I’m here representing my country — it’s not my fault you have problems with my organisation.”

The altercation prompted reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig to walk out in protest. Speaking to the press outside, she expressed disappointment over how the situation was handled: “We have respect for everyone, but this is not how things should be handled. To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful.”

Several contestants followed Victoria’s lead and left the room despite Nawat’s calls for them to remain seated.

“Sit down. If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls will continue,” he said.

Fátima, joined by Miss Iraq Hanin Al Qoreishy, left the venue and later expressed her sadness over the incident:

“I love and respect the Thai people, but I think the world needs to see this. We are empowered women, and this platform is meant for our voices. No one should silence us.”

The controversy has cast a shadow over the start of Miss Universe 2025, which coincidentally returns to Thailand — the same host country where the Philippines last won the title in 2018 under Catriona Gray.

ANI inputs