Additional Coverage:
- Former Miss USA Noelia Voigt ‘disgusted’ by Miss Universe Thailand director’s comments (usatoday.com)
Former Miss USA Noelia Voigt Calls Out “Horrifying” Behavior by Miss Universe Thailand Director
Former Miss USA Noelia Voigt, who famously stepped down from her title to prioritize her mental health, is speaking out against the controversial remarks made by Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil toward Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch. Voigt, known for her advocacy of self-worth, expressed her “full solidarity” with Bosch and other contestants who walked out in protest.
The scandal erupted after Itsaragrisil allegedly called Bosch “stupid” during an argument at the Miss Universe 2025 Orientation in Thailand. The incident, which included a walkout by fellow contestants, quickly gained international attention, sparking the trending hashtag #FátimaBosch and drawing support from prominent figures like Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios and former Miss Universe 2010 Ximena Navarrete.
Voigt, in a lengthy Instagram post on Wednesday, November 5, detailed her shock and disgust at the circulating video of the incident. “As someone who served as Miss USA 2023 and later made the decision to step away from my title, I understand what it feels like when your voice is dismissed and your dignity is demeaned,” Voigt wrote, emphasizing the “profoundly wrong” nature of Itsaragrisil’s conduct, which she argued goes against the pageant’s mission of female empowerment.
Addressing Itsaragrisil directly, Voigt stated, “Don’t be sorry simply because you got caught. There is no place for power without humility in a platform that claims to uplift women.” She further condemned intimidation and ego disguised as leadership, asserting that there is “absolutely no place for treating human beings – especially those representing their nations with bravery and grace – with anything less than dignity, respect and equity.”
Voigt lauded Bosch’s “strength,” “bravery,” and “unwavering stance,” drawing parallels to her own decision to resign from Miss USA. “I spent years being a chronic people pleaser, afraid that standing up for myself would cost me opportunities or make people upset with me,” Voigt shared. “But walking away from that fear, speaking up, reclaiming my dignity and my voice was the most liberating act I’ve ever taken.”
In response to the widespread backlash, Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha Cantú announced sanctions against Itsaragrisil, significantly restricting his participation in the 74th pageant events. Additionally, Rocha Cantú instructed Miss Universe Organization CEO Mario Búcaro to detail “all legal actions they will undertake as a result of the malicious acts committed by Nawat.” A delegation of executives and diplomatic experts will travel to Thailand to manage the situation.
Itsaragrisil, during a press conference and a ceremony on November 5, tearfully apologized for his remarks, citing pressure and human error. Despite the controversy, Bosch has confirmed she will remain in the competition and is preparing for the final coronation on November 21.