Miss Universe Contestant Calls for ‘Unbiased, External’ Investigation After Winner Defends Pageant amid Its Many Controversies

Miss Universe Contestant Calls for Investigation into Pageant Amid Controversies

Miss Universe contestant Melissa Sapini, representing Haiti at the international competition in Bangkok on Nov. 21, has publicly called for an investigation into the pageant following a series of controversies. The crowned winner of the 2025 Miss Universe competition was Fátima Bosch, representing Mexico, amidst allegations of rigged results and the resignations of three members of the selection committee. The Miss Universe Organization has denied any misconduct claims, leading to a call for further scrutiny by Sapini.

Sapini’s call for an independent, external investigation comes in the wake of Fátima Bosch’s defense of the pageant in an ABC News interview on Dec. 2. While Bosch stood by the organization, Sapini’s focus is on ensuring the safety and integrity of all women involved. She emphasises the importance of addressing the serious allegations rather than deflecting with jokes and distractions.

The initial controversy arose when a livestream captured a heated confrontation between pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil and Bosch on Nov. 4, casting doubts on the transparency and fairness of the competition. Sapini, who was present during the incident, refutes claims of misunderstandings and calls out attempts to silence Bosch with fabricated criminal charges.

Sapini highlights the need for an unbiased, external investigation to uncover the truth behind the series of events leading up to and during the Miss Universe competition. She stresses the significance of backstage happenings and the importance of addressing any misconduct or irregularities that may have occurred.

Before her participation in Miss Universe, Sapini held the title of Miss Massachusetts USA and competed at Miss USA in 2024. She recounts her experience leading up to the competition in Thailand as filled with concerning incidents and red flags, including the viral altercation between Bosch and Itsaragrisil that set off alarms for the contestants.

Following the confrontation, multiple resignations from the selection committee and allegations of judging misconduct created further turmoil within the pageant. Contestants shared reports of illnesses and hospitalizations, with claims of inadequate medical attention and food management, raising questions about the overall care provided to participants.

The unfolding series of controversies has prompted Sapini and other contestants to reconsider their involvement in the competition. Despite dedicating her life to the pageant and seeing it as a platform for empowerment and leadership, Sapini’s disillusionment with the events that transpired underscores the need for accountability and transparency within the Miss Universe Organization.

As Sapini’s call for an investigation gains traction, the Miss Universe Organization faces mounting pressure to address the allegations and restore trust in the integrity of the competition. The spotlight on the pageant’s internal workings and treatment of contestants serves as a reminder of the responsibility to uphold fairness and respect in all aspects of the renowned beauty competition.