Overview
- Semifinals and the national costume showcase were held on Nov. 19 at Impact Challenger Hall in the Bangkok area as the event moves toward the Nov. 21 final.
- Mexico’s Fátima Bosch participated in preliminaries and presented a Xochiquétzal‑inspired national costume by designer Fernando Ortiz valued at about 150,000 pesos.
- Judge Omar Harfouch resigned on Nov. 18 alleging preselection and an improvised jury, claims the Miss Universe Organization denied in an official statement citing adherence to protocols.
- At least five delegations withdrew or were replaced before the final, including Persia, Germany, Niger, China and Congo, with reasons ranging from solidarity and family priorities to travel, eligibility and contract disputes.
- Multiple contestants reported illness after eating local dishes, and Mexico’s director Jorge Figueroa was reported detained before later saying he was free and rejecting the accusations.