Miss Universe Executive Apologizes After Calling Contestant Unintelligent

Miss Universe official Nawat Itsaragrisil issued a public apology following his derogatory remark, labeling Miss Universe Mexico Fátima Bosch "unintelligent," in the lead-up to the 2025 competition.

A startling disagreement within the Miss Universe organization became public knowledge during the yearly sash presentation in November 2025, when Itsaragrisil expressed dissatisfaction specifically with Bosch's absence from a promotional photoshoot for the pageant and its 2025 host nation, Thailand.

When Bosch rose to challenge his criticisms, Itsaragrisil openly requested security intervention to stop her. Widely circulated video footage depicted utter chaos as Bosch, accompanied by several other contenders, including Miss Universe 2024 victor Victoria Kjær Theilvig, exited the ceremony.

"I believe the world needs to witness this, because we are empowered women, and this platform serves as an outlet for our voices," Bosch informed journalists outside the venue. "No one possesses the ability to silence it. No one will silence me."

How Miss USA 2024 Winner Alma Cooper Plans to Be a ‘Positive Influence'

Us provides an explanation of the disagreement between Itsaragrisil and Bosch below.

Who Is Miss Universe Executive Nawat Itsaragrisil?

Itsaragrisil is a well-known, yet contentious, Thai television personality who first gained prominence by hosting various travel documentaries.

He formally joined Miss Thailand World in 2007, serving as both an executive producer and director, and subsequently held several other senior management roles within the pageant industry.

As of November 2025, Itsaragrisil held the position of president for the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI) and vice president of Miss Universe Asia, according to his Instagram profile. He assumed control of the Miss Universe Thailand brand in 2025.

What Did Nawat Itsaragrisil Say About Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch?

A dispute concerning social media promotion for Miss Universe’s 2025 host country, Thailand, escalated into public view prior to the event on November 21, 2025.

Itsaragrisil engaged in a verbal confrontation with Miss Universe Mexico contestant Fátima Bosch at the annual sash ceremony, which was livestreamed on Facebook from Thailand, on November 3, 2025. The Miss Universe executive took issue with some contestants' reluctance to "promote the host country" on social media platforms.

"Exercise caution. You are in Thailand," he cautioned. "You are participating in a competition."

Itsaragrisil specifically chastised Bosch for allegedly refusing to participate in a photo session intended to promote Thailand. Bosch stood up to deny that she had followed instructions from Mexico's pageant director to avoid posting on social media about Thailand.

"No, you must hear me out first, then you can challenge me," Itsaragrisil insisted.

Bosch requested that Itsaragrisil treat her with respect, adding that "it is not my fault that you have issues with my [Mexico] organization."

During their exchange, Itsaragrisil purportedly implied Bosch would be a "fool" if she continued to comply with her "national director's instructions." ("Dumbhead" is an insult signifying "idiot" or "empty-minded.")

Bosch then exited the ballroom in protest, with several other contestants — including Miss Universe 2024 titleholder Victoria Kjær Theilvig — following her.

"Halt," Itsaragrisil commanded. "No. Stop."

At one point, Itsaragrisil even threatened to summon security personnel to restore order during the ceremony.

How Did Fatima Bosch Respond to Argument With Nawat Itsaragrisil?

Bosch spoke with journalists outside the ballroom to present her perspective on the incident.

"As a nation, [Thailand has] my complete respect," she asserted. "I genuinely adore Thailand. I respect all of you. I believe that you are wonderful people, but what your director just did is not respectful."

Bosch continued, "[Itsaragrisil] called me 'dumb' because he has difficulties with the organization. I think that is not fair because … I do not bother anyone. I simply try to be kind. I am trying to perform my best."

Miss Universe Mexico 2025 pledged not to allow Itsaragrisil's behavior to overshadow her reign.

"It is irrelevant whether you possess a grand aspiration or a crown," Bosch stated. "If it diminishes your self-worth, you ought to depart."

How Did Miss Universe Respond to the Controversy?

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) affirmed that the pageant would proceed by upholding the "principles of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion."

"The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) reiterates its dedication to collaborating closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to guarantee the triumph of the 74th installment of the pageant. A senior delegation, led by the MUO's CEO, Mr. Mario Búcaro, is traveling to Thailand to reinforce cooperation with the host nation, MGI, and relevant authorities," the MUO statement read. "All planned events and activities will proceed as scheduled, affirming our mutual objective of delivering a global celebration that mirrors the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion that define the legacy of Miss Universe."

Why Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig Intends to Remain Single During Her Reign

Miss Universe president Raul Rocha Cantu expressed his "solidarity and support" for all of the contestants in a video message.

"I will not permit the principles of respect and dignity towards women to be violated. Regrettably, Nawat has forgotten the true essence of what it means to be a genuine host," Rocha acknowledged. "It implies demonstrating to all delegates from every country that he, as a host, is obligated to serve them, assist them, and support them. And to ensure they have a distinctive life experience filled with kindness and courtesy."

Miss Universe 2024 winner Kjær Theilvig — who walked out of the sash ceremony with Bosch and others — also informed the media that the core of the controversy revolved around "women's rights."

"We respect everyone, but this is not the proper way to handle situations. Insulting another contestant demonstrates a significant lack of respect, and I would never do that," she declared. "That is why I am putting on my coat and leaving."