Overview
- Omar Harfouch resigned from the judging panel, alleging an off-books "impromptu jury" preselected the Top 30 and citing conflicts of interest, including an alleged romantic relationship involving someone tied to vote management.
- The Miss Universe Organization issued an official denial, said the names cited were for a separate social-impact program, and barred Harfouch from using or associating with its trademarks.
- Former French soccer star Claude Makélélé also withdrew, citing unforeseen personal reasons, and selection committee president Princess Camilla di Borbone delle Due Sicilie later stepped down.
- Organizers named replacements for the panel, including former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova, Zimbabwean colonel Miniyothabo Francisca Baloyi, and Filipino singer Louie Heredia.
- An anonymous contestant told People that many delegates learned via social media about a preselection they say occurred without official judges, while Harfouch said he is weighing legal action against the organization.