Chaos erupted during the pre-pageant events for the 74th Miss Universe competition in Thailand after several contestants walked out, accusing Thai Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) Vice President Nawat Itsaragrisil of disrespectful behaviour.
According to MGR Online, Mexico’s representative Fátima Bosch refused to take part in activities organised by the Thailand-based PR team following a dispute between Nawat and the Mexico-based MUO team on November 3.
The disagreement reportedly involved MUO shareholder Raúl Rocha Cantú, a Mexican businessman, after claims surfaced that the Mexican MUO team had encouraged contestants to promote an online gambling platform, something strictly illegal under Thai law.
On November 4, the Thai MUO team hosted a sash presentation ceremony ahead of the Miss Universe final on November 21. During the event, Nawat allegedly confronted Bosch, questioning her decision to opt out of certain activities.
Bosch reportedly tried to explain herself, but Nawat interrupted her and demanded that she listen instead. Witnesses said the incident left Bosch in tears, and she eventually walked out of the event.
Miss Universe 2024 winner Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark soon followed in solidarity. Several other contestants also attempted to leave, but Nawat allegedly ordered security to lock the doors.
In a viral clip, he can be heard shouting: “Stop, close the doors. Stop! Sit down. If you want to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls continue.”
After the incident, Bosch told reporters she “loves Thailand and respects everyone” but claimed Nawat shouted at her because of his conflict with the Mexican MUO team. She described his behaviour as “disrespectful and unfair,” despite her efforts to stay professional.
Theilvig also spoke to the press before leaving, saying she believed Nawat’s conduct violated women’s rights.
Later, she posted a photo with fellow contestants on Instagram, captioned: “This is women empowerment. This is sisterhood. Forever and always.”
Nawat has yet to make any public statement regarding the controversy. Meanwhile, Miss Universe fans have begun questioning who will crown the next titleholder this year following Victoria Kjær Theilvig’s exit.
