BANGKOK — Olivia Yacé of Côte d’Ivoire has resigned her title as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, five days after placing fourth runner-up at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok. Her announcement, issued in a statement dated Nov. 24, comes as the competition faces growing controversy over alleged misconduct and judging irregularities.
Yacé, considered one of the favorites to win after previously placing second runner-up at Miss World 2022, said she was stepping down to remain “true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity.”
“With a heart full of gratitude and profound respect, I hereby announce my resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, as well as from any future affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee,” she wrote. Yacé said she hoped to continue serving as a role model for young women and communities of African descent, adding, “Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard.”
Many pageant followers had expected Yacé to finish higher, noting the strength of her answers in both final rounds. Her fifth-place result drew criticism online, particularly among fans who said she outperformed most of the top five.
The 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand has been marred by disputes. Tensions escalated after a confrontation between eventual winner Fátima Bosch of Mexico and Thai pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil during a pre-pageant activity. Several contestants accused the Thai organizing team of disrespectful behavior, leading some to walk out.
Miss Universe Organization President Raul Rocha Cantú later scaled back Itsaragrisil’s role. The turmoil deepened when two judges from France and Lebanon withdrew days before the final, claiming the outcome had been predetermined. Criticism continued after the broadcast.
Former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova, who won the crown in 2005, said she “will never be participating as a judge again,” citing the absence of an onstage auditor this year. “When I competed in 2005 and years prior, I recall there was always an auditor who came on stage with sealed results from an accounting firm,” she wrote. “I’d like to bring that back please.”
Yacé ended her statement by congratulating the new Miss Universe and wishing Miss Universe Jamaica a speedy recovery. “I will now continue my journey differently,” she wrote. “It’s time for Africa.”
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