“Leaned On The Victim Narrative”: Miss Universe 2025 Faces Backlash Over Her Victory And Speech

The MUO firmly rejected all of Harfouch’s claims , insisting that its processes remained “established, transparent, and supervised.” The organization said the independent committee Harfouch referenced was part of a separate social impact program. They concluded by acknowledging his resignation and banning him from associating with Miss Universe branding in any form.

The controversy rattled contestants, too. One anonymous delegate told PEOPLE , “This revelation came moments after we stepped off stage from our final rehearsal… It is heartbreaking.”