Mexican entrant Fátima Bosch found herself in a highly publicised dispute with Thai pageant official Nawat Itsaragrisil during a pre-event session in Bangkok ahead of the Miss Universe 2025 competition, scheduled to conclude in November.

The incident unfolded during a meeting convened for all contestants prior to the sash ceremony, where the director publicly challenged Bosch for refusing to participate in a video clip he described as required of all delegates.

According to footage circulating online, Itsaragrisil chastised Bosch for declining to record a promotional video promoting Thailand, an activity that Bosch’s team insisted was neither official nor mandatory.

He then reportedly called her “tonta,” meaning “stupid,” before instructing security to escort her from the room.

Bosch stood to defend herself, and several contestants joined her in solidarity as she left the venue.

Bosch later addressed the press alongside Miss Iraq, expressing both sadness and strength: “I want to say something to all of you.

You know your country has all my respect.

I truly love Thailand, and I think you’re wonderful people.

But what your director just did was not respectful.” She continued, “He called me stupid because he has issues with my organisation.

I think it’s unfair.

I’m here doing everything right, I don’t bother anyone, I just try to be kind.”

Her comments were echoed by George Figueroa, National Director of Miss Universe Mexico, who affirmed his full support: “It’s been a powerful moment, but Fátima, with her superwoman personality, has turned this around and made global impact.” Bosch later shared an empowering message to viewers: “I hope everyone watching—every woman—remembers that no matter how big your dream is, if something takes away your dignity, you must walk away.”

Following the confrontation, Itsaragrisil issued a livestreamed apology to the seventy-five contestants, saying he had spoken personally with them and regretted the misunderstanding.

He explained that his request to share social-media content was intended to promote the host country, not to single out any participant.

Despite the apology, the incident has prompted widespread debate over contestant treatment and professional standards in international beauty pageants.

Fátima Bosch has continued with her preparations to represent Mexico, drawing strong support both from fellow participants and fans who greeted her outside her hotel chanting her name.

The Miss Universe Organisation later released a statement reaffirming its commitment to respect, safety, and integrity for all involved.