‘I want to apologise...’ Miss universe host tearfully responds after Miss Mexico incident

Bangkok: The Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand has been hit by major controversy after several contestants walked out in protest against host and Miss Grand International (MGI) director Nawat Itsaragrisil, who was accused of humiliating Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, during a pre-event ceremony.

What did Nawat say in his apology?

Following the global outrage, Nawat addressed the media on Wednesday with tears in his eyes. “I want to apologise to everyone. I had no idea how big this issue would become,” he said.

However, his apology did little to calm the internet. Social media users dismissed his statement as insincere, with one person commenting, “Are the tears in the room with us?” while another joked, “Those tears are the driest I’ve ever seen.”

How did the Miss Universe Organisation respond?

On November 4, the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) released an official statement reaffirming its commitment to maintaining respect, safety, and integrity throughout the competition.

“The Miss Universe Organisation reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organisation, and all local partners to ensure the continued success of the 74th Miss Universe competition,” the statement said.

It further confirmed that a high-level delegation led by CEO Mario Búcara was travelling to Thailand “to strengthen collaboration with the host country, MGI, and relevant authorities.” The team aims to coordinate efforts and ensure a professional, transparent, and secure environment for all participants.

“All scheduled events and activities will continue as planned,” MUO added, stressing that the goal remains to deliver an “exceptional global celebration reflecting the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion.”

What did Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha say?

Later, Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha released a stronger statement addressing the incident between Nawat Itsaragrisil and Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch. The organisation expressed its “solidarity and unconditional support” for all 122 contestants and made it clear that “respect and dignity toward women are non-negotiable.”

The statement accused Nawat of having “forgotten the true meaning of being a host,” explaining that hosting should mean “to serve, attend to, and support the delegates,” ensuring that they are treated with kindness and courtesy.

The incident, it said, involved Nawat “humiliating, insulting, and disrespecting” Fátima Bosch, and “calling security to intimidate a defenceless woman, attempting to silence and exclude her.” Rocha condemned the act, calling it “not only an attack against one person but against all women present.”

The organisation stressed it “will not allow any delegate to be attacked or humiliated,” adding that many participants have overcome personal challenges to compete at Miss Universe.

What changes has the organisation made?

As a result of the confrontation, the sash ceremony event was postponed “to avoid further interaction with Nawat.” The MUO criticised his behaviour and said his participation had now been restricted: “I have conditioned Nawat’s involvement in the events of the 74th Miss Universe competition so that it is very limited or null.”

The CEO, Mario Búcara, has also been directed to release an official corporate statement outlining “legal and organisational actions” in response. A team of Miss Universe executives and experts has already been dispatched to Thailand to take direct control of the remaining events.

Reaffirming its mission, the organisation stated: “Miss Universe is a platform for the empowerment of women, where their voices are heard worldwide.” The statement concluded with a message for the contestants: “Walk with your heads held high… let no one stop you.”

What actually happened during the walkout?

The controversy began earlier this week when videos surfaced showing contestants walking out of a sash ceremony after Nawat Itsaragrisil allegedly insulted Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch.

During the event, Nawat reprimanded the contestants for not performing their duties properly, asking Fátima to stand up and publicly criticising her for taking instructions from her national director instead of the event organisers. He reportedly called her a “dumbhead.”

When Fátima tried to defend herself, Nawat interrupted her, saying, “I didn’t give you an opportunity to talk.” He then called for security, seemingly to remove her from the room. As Miss Mexico was escorted out, the other contestants collectively stood up and followed her in protest.

Outside, Fátima told the media that she respected Thailand and its people but would not tolerate disrespect from Nawat. She received loud applause and support from the crowd as she demanded fair treatment.

How has social media reacted?

Footage of the walkout quickly went viral, with netizens demanding Nawat’s removal. The incident drew strong criticism from across the world, with hashtags calling for accountability trending on multiple platforms.

What’s happening now?

Following the uproar, Miss Universe organisers have resumed pre-pageant events under tight supervision. The evening gown presentation was held on Wednesday, where contestants introduced themselves on stage.

Miss Mexico participated but appeared visibly subdued during the event. The main Miss Universe ceremony is scheduled for November 21, with Manika Vishwakarma representing India this year.