Nawat Itsaragrisil, the president of Miss Grand International (MGI), has publicly apologized for his outburst during a sashing ceremony that led to significant disruption. The incident occurred on Tuesday, and its aftermath has drawn widespread attention.
Itsaragrisil took to his TikTok account a few hours after the event to address the situation. In his live stream, he expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged the discomfort experienced by some contestants. “If anyone is feeling not good, if anyone is not comfortable, if anyone [affected], I do apologize for everyone. But I did talk, apologize to the rest of the girls in the room. Around 75 girls in the room already,” he stated.
He also reflected on the challenges he faces as the head of MGI. “I prepare everything for everybody, every country. This is my dream, but I know sometimes many conditions happen,” he added.
Miss Grand International president Nawat Itsaragrisil (L) stands next to the titleholder of the 2024 MGI pageant. Photo from Itsaragrisil’s Instagram
Earlier that evening, the controversy began when Itsaragrisil questioned some contestants at the sashing ceremony about their refusal to participate in sponsored photoshoots. He specifically addressed Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch, asking why she had not posted promotional content about Thailand. He suggested that her national director had instructed her not to do so.
When Bosch attempted to explain her position, Itsaragrisil asked her to sit down and called security, leading to further tension among the contestants. Some of them became upset and left the event.
During the incident, Itsaragrisil said, “If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down.” Miss Mexico left the room in tears, feeling insulted by his behavior. Reigning Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig of Denmark and several Latin contestants joined the walkout, expressing their disapproval of Itsaragrisil’s actions.
While speaking during the livestream, Itsaragrisil described the moment when Bosch stood up to speak. “While I was speaking for two or three minutes, I didn’t ask anyone to stand or speak. Suddenly, Mexico stood up and said something,” he said. “I couldn’t hear her clearly because she was far away, so I told her not to speak, to sit down, because I was addressing everyone about general matters… She said that it was her voice. I got angry. I accepted that, but I told her she still needed to respect me. Then she raised her voice,” he continued.
Itsaragrisil clarified that he called security only to ensure his own safety and not to threaten the contestants. He mentioned that chaos erupted when a member of the Mexican delegation accompanying Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig encouraged Latin contestants to leave the room.
The president admitted that he faced daily pressure following the incident and confirmed that he would not force contestants to take part in promotional photoshoots in the future. He also assured that Miss Mexico is fine and under protection.
Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch. Photo from Bosch’s Instagram
Later that evening, Bosch spoke to reporters and stated that she would continue competing in Miss Universe 2025. “I’m here stronger than ever. I have a purpose, things to say, and spaces to occupy. We’re in the 21st century, and I’m not a doll to be painted, styled, or dressed up. I came here to raise my voice for all women and girls fighting for their causes,” she said.
Itsaragrisil is currently facing criticism for his conduct and alleged misuse of power as the head of the Miss Universe 2025 hosting committee. His actions have sparked debate over the treatment of contestants and the influence of pageant organizers. Previously, he drew backlash for launching an online vote titled “Top 10 contestants to have dinner with President Nawat” on the Miss Universe Thailand fanpage. The Miss Universe Organization later ordered the removal of the poll, citing unauthorized activity.