Miss Universe 2025 Rocked by Judge Resignations and Rigging Allegations

Two Miss Universe judges resigned just days before the 2025 finale. Omar Harfouch and Claude Makélélé left the eight-person panel. Harfouch alleged an “impromptu jury” had already chosen the finalists.



The Miss Universe Organisation strongly denied these claims. They stated no external group was authorized to select contestants. The pageant’s integrity is now under intense global scrutiny.

Organisation Denies Claims of Pre-Selected Finalists

Omar Harfouch made his allegations public on Instagram. He claimed an unofficial group with conflicts of interest had influenced the competition. He stated this group had personal relationships with some delegates.

Claude Makélélé cited personal reasons for his departure. He expressed respect for the pageant’s values of empowerment and diversity. The Miss Universe Organisation responded by clarifying the role of its “Beyond the Crown” social initiative. According to the BBC, the organisation insists the main competition judging remains independent and fair.

Global Contestants Shine Amidst Controversy

The competition proceeded with over 120 national delegates. Thailand’s Praveenar Singh captivated audiences in the National Costume show. Her golden “Guardian Yaksha” outfit celebrated Thai cultural heritage.

India’s Manika Vishwakarma aims to become her country’s fourth Miss Universe winner. The Hindustan Times reports the finale will be held in Bangkok on November 21. The event will be streamed live globally on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did the resigned judges allege?

Omar Harfouch claimed an unofficial group preselected finalists. He suggested potential conflicts of interest existed. The organisation has firmly denied all allegations.

When is the Miss Universe 2025 finale?

The finale is scheduled for November 21, 2025. It will take place in Bangkok, Thailand. The event starts at 8:00 AM local time.

How many countries are participating this year?

Over 120 countries are represented at Miss Universe 2025. Delegates from across the globe are competing. The theme is “The Power of Love.”

Who is representing India at the pageant?

Manika Vishwakarma is the Indian representative. She won the national title in Jaipur last August. She hopes to become India’s fourth Miss Universe winner.

Has there been other controversy this year?

Yes, the Thailand director publicly criticized Miss Mexico for lack of social media promotion. This led to a walkout by several contestants. The organisation sent international executives to oversee the competition.