Mexico’s Fátima Bosch Crowned Miss Universe in Glittering Finale of Scandal-Hit Pageant

In a dramatic and highly charged night in Bangkok, Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025, capping off a pageant that was as controversial as it was celebratory. The 25-year-old from Tabasco emerged not just as the winner, but as a symbol of resilience, voice, and change—after weeks of tension, walkouts, and public outcry surrounding the competition.

A Turbulent Road to the Crown

The 74th Miss Universe pageant, hosted at the Impact Challenger Hall in Nonthaburi, Thailand, was anything but smooth. The lead-up was marred by a viral confrontation between Bosch and a key pageant figure: Nawat Itsaragrisil, a Thai pageant executive. The controversy began when Itsaragrisil publicly criticized Bosch during a livestreamed pre-pageant event, accusing her of not participating enough in sponsor-driven social media content, and calling her “dumbhead.” Yahoo+2Madison365+2

When Bosch tried to defend herself, she declared, “You are not respecting me as a woman,” prompting the director to call for security to remove her. Yahoo+2ABC7 San Francisco+2 Her stand did not go unnoticed: several contestants walked out in solidarity, including the reigning Miss Universe, Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark. Yahoo+1

Fallout and Judge Resignations

The backlash was swift and fierce. The Miss Universe Organization condemned Itsaragrisil’s behavior, saying it violated the “values of respect and dignity of women.” Yahoo On top of that, two judges resigned shortly before the final: Omar Harfouch, who claimed that there had been an “impromptu” jury pre-selecting finalists, and Claude Makélélé, who cited “unforeseen personal reasons.” ABC7 San Francisco+1

Amid the chaos, Bosch’s poise and message shone through, transforming her into a powerful figure in the eyes of many fans and commentators. Mundo Deportivo

The Final Night: Triumph Over Turmoil

Despite all the controversy, the pageant carried on—and the finale did not disappoint. Hosted by comedian Steve Byrne and featuring performances from Thai singer Jeff Satur, the event saw over 120 delegates compete in swimwear, evening gown, and a final Q&A. Madison365+1

During the final round, contestants were asked about global issues and how they would use their platform to make a difference—to speak at the United Nations, for example. Bosch’s message was clear and heartfelt:

“Believe in the power of your authenticity. Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth.” Madison365

When her name was announced as the winner, the audience exploded into cheers. Flags waved, supporters celebrated, and Bosch, visibly emotional, accepted the crown from her predecessor, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. The Independent

The runners-up were Thailand’s Praveenar Singh, followed by Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali, the Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo, and Ivory Coast’s Olivia Yacé. The Independent+1

Why This Win Resonates

Bosch’s victory is about more than just a sash and a crown. Her journey has become a touchstone for larger conversations within pageant culture: respect, equity, and the role of women’s voices.

• Standing up to mistreatment: By pushing back against a powerful figure who publicly insulted her, Bosch challenged established power dynamics in a high-profile space. Yahoo+2Mundo Deportivo+2

• Empowering others: Her win is being framed as more than personal—it’s a win for authenticity, respect, and the idea that beauty pageants can be platforms for real change. HOLA! USA

• Representation and diversity: She spoke explicitly about using her voice “in the service of others,” particularly young women seeking representation and self-worth. The Independent

Backlash, but Also Support

While many celebrated Bosch’s victory, there have also been continued questions and criticism. Some social media users referenced the judge resignations and called into question the transparency of the judging process. Yahoo+1 But amid the scrutiny, she’s also received high-profile support: Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum praised her for handling the confrontation with “dignity.” ABC7 San Francisco

What Bosch Says Next

In her post-win comments, Bosch emphasized that she doesn’t just want to be remembered as another beauty queen. She told the press she hopes to be “a person who changed a little bit the prototype of what a Miss Universe is … a real person that gives the heart.” AP News

She also underscored how she plans to use her reign: to be a voice for women, to promote respect, to advance inclusion, and to highlight social issues she cares about deeply. The Independent

The Bigger Picture: A Scandal That Could Spark Change

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant may go down in history not just for its winner, but for its controversies—and for what Bosch’s victory could symbolize in the long run.

1. A reckoning in pageant leadership: The public fallout over Itsaragrisil’s behavior and the judge resignations signal a growing demand for accountability from those who run such high-profile competitions.

2. Pageants as platforms: Bosch’s win reinforces the idea that pageants are no longer just about physical beauty but about storytelling, advocacy, and purpose.

3. Women’s voices matter: Her boldness in speaking out and the solidarity she received from other contestants may inspire future participants to be more vocal, assertive, and demanding of respect.