The 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Thailand has faced growing tension, prompting Nawat Itsaragrisil, the vice president for Asia and Oceania at the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) and head of the local organizing committee, to publicly apologise to contestants during the Live Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, November 5.
"Everybody knows the past few days have been a lot of pressure. I think you must understand that the pressure is a lot. But I have not intended to harm anyone," Nawat said.
"I respect all of you. But I have to say that I am so sorry that it happened. I want to offer this opportunity to apologise to the delegates if anyone was not comfortable with what happened. I’m sorry."
He also extended his apology to fans worldwide:
"I am sorry for the Miss Universe fans around the world."
The apology followed backlash after Nawat openly criticised Miss Universe Mexico, Fatima Bosch, during a live broadcast on Tuesday. In response, reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, along with several other contestants, walked out in solidarity with Miss Mexico.
On November 4, the Miss Universe Organisation reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to ensure the pageant’s ongoing success.
The Miss Universe 2025 event in Thailand became turbulent after public criticism of Miss Mexico, leading to Nawat Itsaragrisil’s apology and MUO’s renewed pledge to uphold the pageant’s values.