Miss Universe Owner Admits He’s ‘Fed Up,’ Looking to Sell Pageant Organization amid Ongoing Controversies

Miss Universe owner, Raul Rocha, recently announced his plans to sell the prestigious pageant organization. Rocha, who acquired the international beauty pageant in January 2024, revealed his intentions in an interview just three days after Fátima Bosch was crowned Miss Universe 2025. The competition, which took place in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 21, had been surrounded by controversy leading up to the event.

In his discussion with Mexican journalist Adela Micha, Rocha expressed his frustration with the ongoing issues plaguing the Miss Universe Organization. As the president and 50 percent shareholder of the pageant, Rocha stated that he is actively seeking a new owner to take over the reins. He likened the transition to a relay race, emphasizing the importance of passing the baton to someone capable of steering the organization forward.

When asked about his decision to sell the pageant after just a year of ownership, Rocha cited his weariness with the constant scrutiny and opinions from various stakeholders. Despite his position as the owner and president, Rocha lamented the interference in his decision-making processes, noting that everyone seemed to have an opinion on how the business should be run.

The controversy surrounding the Miss Universe Organization escalated when musician Omar Harfouch publicly resigned from his role on the selection committee. Harfouch alleged that there had been preemptive selection of the top 30 finalists before the competition even began, casting doubts on the fairness and integrity of the pageant. Subsequent resignations followed, including that of pro soccer player Claude Makélélé and the selection committee president, Princess Camilla di Borbone delle Due Sicilie.

Prior to the crowning of Fátima Bosch as Miss Universe 2025, a confrontation between pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil and Bosch had captured public attention. The incident led to multiple sanctions against Itsaragrisil and raised further concerns about the transparency of the competition’s judging process. Amid the turmoil, a former Miss Universe contestant expressed her disappointment at the alleged misconduct, highlighting the sacrifices made by participants in their pursuit of the crown.

The Miss Universe Organization’s handling of the controversies and allegations has sparked widespread discussions and debates within the pageant community and beyond. The uncertainty surrounding the future ownership of the pageant adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding saga. As stakeholders await further developments, the Miss Universe Organization finds itself at a crossroads, with the need for transparency, accountability, and a renewed commitment to upholding the values of integrity and fairness in the esteemed beauty pageant.