Overview
- Miss Suomi announced at a Dec. 11 press conference in Helsinki that Dzafce’s 2025 crown was rescinded and first runner-up Tara Lehtonen would assume the title immediately.
- The internal review followed a widely shared photo of Dzafce pulling the corners of her eyes with a Finnish caption translated as “eating with a Chinese,” which drew accusations of racism.
- Dzafce initially claimed she was massaging her temples during a headache and that a friend added the caption, then issued a public apology to those hurt, especially the Asian community.
- CEO Sunneva Sjögren said the decision came after discussions following Dzafce’s return from Miss Universe, emphasizing that racism contradicts the pageant’s values and that the role represents Finland internationally.
- Lehtonen said she was surprised to receive the call about the succession and pledged to carry the title with pride and deep respect.