A tense incident at a Miss Universe pre-pageant event in Thailand led to several contestants walking out after Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was publicly reprimanded by the host country’s pageant director, Nawat Itsaragrisil.
The confrontation reportedly took place because Ms. Bosch had not shared required promotional content. When she raised objections, Mr. Nawat escalated the situation by calling security and threatening disqualification for any contestant showing support for her. In response, Ms. Bosch left the room, and many contestants followed in solidarity.
Footage of the incident, which was live-streamed and widely shared online, shows contestants standing up to show support for Ms. Bosch while Mr. Nawat repeatedly instructed them to sit or face disqualification.
The Miss Universe Organisation condemned Mr. Nawat’s behaviour as “malicious,” prompting him to issue an apology. Despite the apology, the incident has drawn widespread attention and sparked discussions about respect and conduct at international pageants.
After the walkout, Ms. Bosch described the 60-year-old director’s behaviour as “disrespectful” and claimed he insulted her. Mr. Nawat, however, maintains that his remarks were misinterpreted.
