Miss Universe Contestants Walk Out After Organiser Berates Miss Mexico
At a pre-pageant event, tensions rose when Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly reprimanded Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, accusing her of failing to post promotional content.
When Ms. Bosch protested, Mr. Nawat called security and threatened disqualification for those who supported her. Ms. Bosch left the room, and several other contestants followed in solidarity.
“If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls continue,” Mr. Nawat said as many contestants stood up to support Ms. Bosch.
The incident, captured in a live-streamed video, shows some contestants shouting back at Mr. Nawat, who raised his voice and repeatedly told Ms. Bosch to stop talking. The majority of the contestants stood, with many walking towards the exit.
Afterward, Ms. Bosch described the 60-year-old executive as "not respectful" and stated that he had called her "dumb."
The Miss Universe Organisation condemned Mr. Nawat's “malicious” behaviour, which he has since apologized for.
The contestants, all winners of their respective national pageants, attended the event wearing their sashes and gowns.
Summary
The public rebuke of Miss Mexico by the Miss Universe Thailand director led to multiple contestants walking out in protest, highlighting tensions within the pageant’s management.