Fatima Bosch of Mexico was named Miss Universe during a ceremony in Thailand, concluding a pageant season marked by significant internal conflict. The event faced controversy when its Thai organizer, Nawat Itsaragrasil, publicly reprimanded Bosch for insufficient promotional activity, an action the Miss Universe Organisation condemned. This incident highlighted reported tensions between the pageant's Thai and Mexican leadership, including businessman Raul Rocha.
Further disputes emerged with the resignation of two judges, one of whom alleged a separate panel had pre-selected finalists, a claim the organization denied. The competition also proceeded under new management after the recent resignation of former CEO Anne Jakrajutatip. Contestants from Thailand, Venezuela, the Philippines, and Cote d’Ivoire rounded out the top five.
Further disputes emerged with the resignation of two judges, one of whom alleged a separate panel had pre-selected finalists, a claim the organization denied. The competition also proceeded under new management after the recent resignation of former CEO Anne Jakrajutatip. Contestants from Thailand, Venezuela, the Philippines, and Cote d’Ivoire rounded out the top five.
