Miss Universe 2025 Controversy Deepens: Second Judge Resigns Days Before Finale

The Miss Universe 2025 pageant has been hit by fresh turbulence as yet another judge stepped down just days before the global event in Bangkok, Thailand. Following the surprise resignation of Lebanese composer Omar Harfouch, French football manager Claude Makélélé also announced his withdrawal, adding fuel to an already intensifying controversy around the competition.

Claude Makélélé Declines Participation, Cites ‘Unforeseen Personal Reasons’

Makélélé confirmed his exit in a brief Instagram statement posted on November 18, 2025, only three days before the highly anticipated November 21 finale.

“Regretfully, I will not be attending Miss Universe 2025. Thank you for your understanding and support,” he wrote in his public statement.

While he did not reveal a detailed reason, the former football star mentioned “unforeseen personal reasons” and offered a heartfelt apology to the organisation and contestants.

In a longer caption, he added:

“It is with regret that I must announce that I won’t be able to attend the Miss Universe 2025 event due to unforeseen personal reasons. This was a difficult decision, as I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence — values I have always championed. I sincerely apologise to the organisation, the contestants, and everyone involved, and I hope to contribute in the future under better circumstances.”

Makélélé’s resignation comes at a sensitive time, intensifying speculation around internal concerns within the judging panel.

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A post shared by Claude Makélélé 🇫🇷🇨🇩 (@makeleleofficial)

Why Is Miss Universe 2025 Surrounded by Controversy?

The pageant has been under scrutiny ever since judge Omar Harfouch resigned earlier this week, alleging that the competition was “rigged”.

Omar Harfouch’s Allegations

• He claimed that an “impromptu jury” preselected the Top 30 contestants.
• He alleged conflicts of interest, including a supposed personal relationship between a committee member and a contestant.
• Harfouch stated that he stepped down after a “disrespectful conversation” with Miss Universe CEO Raul Rocha, citing a lack of transparency in the scoring process.

Miss Universe Organisation Denies Claims

The MUO issued a strong response, rejecting all allegations. It stated:

• No impromptu jury existed
• All evaluations follow transparent and established protocols
• Omar Harfouch is now banned from associating with the brand or using its trademarks

The organisation maintains that the pageant continues with integrity and fairness.

Previous Clash With Miss Mexico Adds to the Tension

The situation worsened earlier when Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch confronted pageant organiser Nawat Itsaragrisil.
During a livestreamed event, Nawat allegedly called her “dumb”, prompting several contestants to walk out in solidarity.

The string of incidents has painted Miss Universe 2025 as one of the most controversial editions in recent years.

India’s Manika Vishwakarma Heads to Thailand Amid Turmoil

Miss India 2025, Manika Vishwakarma, is set to represent India at the global stage on November 21, 2025, in Bangkok.
The grand finale will be livestreamed on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel at 6:30 AM IST.