Former Miss USA Noelia Voigt ‘disgusted’ by Miss Universe Thailand director’s comments

Edward Segarra

Former Miss USA Noelia Voigt knows a thing or two about standing up for yourself.

The model and ex-beauty pageant contestant, who resigned from her 2023 title to preserve her mental health, weighed in on the controversy surrounding Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil, who’s faced a growing tide of criticism for harsh remarks he made toward Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch.

“Thank you all for your patience while I took some time to organize my thoughts on this,” Voigt, 26, wrote in an Instagram post Wednesday, Nov. 5. “It has been heartwarming to see the international outpouring of support for Fátima and all of the girls who stood alongside her. Let’s keep standing together 🤍”

The scandal stems from an insult-laden argument that Itsaragrisil had with Bosch, whom he called “stupid.” Miss Universe Mexico subsequently characterized the events, which included a walkout from fellow contestants, as “unacceptable,” and as her declarations and footage of the incident unfolded, the hashtag #FátimaBosch became a global trending topic.

Bosch has insisted that she will remain in the competition and is preparing along with the rest of contestants for the final coronation on Nov. 21.

Noelia Voigt statement: ‘Genuinely horrified’ by Miss Universe Thailand director’s comments

In a lengthy Instagram post, Voigt said she stands in “full solidarity with Fátima Bosch, (Miss Universe 2024) Victoria Kjær Theilvig and all of the incredible women who walked out yesterday in protest of the unacceptable treatment that occurred at the Miss Universe 2025 Orientation in Thailand.”

“When I woke up yesterday morning and saw the video circulating across the internet showing what happened, I was shocked, disgusted, disappointed and genuinely horrified,” Voigt wrote. “As someone who served as Miss USA 2023 and later made the decision to step away from my title, I understand what it feels like when your voice is dismissed and your dignity is demeaned.”

Voigt went on to slam Itsaragrisil’s conduct toward Bosch as “profoundly wrong” and going against the renowned pageant’s “mission” of female empowerment.

“And there is absolutely no place for treating human beings — especially those representing their nations with bravery and grace — with anything less than dignity, respect and equity,” she added.

Voigt also praised Bosch for her “strength,” “bravery” and “unwavering stance” in handling the incident, explaining that it reminded her of the circumstances that led to her Miss USA resignation.

“I spent years being a chronic people pleaser, afraid that standing up for myself would cost me opportunities or make people upset with me,” Voigt wrote. “But walking away from that fear, speaking up, reclaiming my dignity and my voice was the most liberating act I’ve ever taken.”

Nawat Itsaragrisil apologizes for Fátima Bosch comments

During an appearance at a Nov. 5 press conference, Itsaragrisil apologized for his remarks on Bosch, tearfully expressing remorse about his actions.

“I am human. I didn’t want to do anything like that,” the Thai executive told the press. He also apologized to the delegates directly during a ceremony that same day.

“I want to take this opportunity to say something about something that’s happened. Because I am a human,” Itsaragrisil said. “I think you must understand the pressure is a lot, I am a human sometimes. I cannot control. By the way, I have not intended to hurt anyone.”

In addition to the sanctions placed on Itsaragrisil’s Miss Universe participation, Miss Universe President Raul Rocha Cantú instructed Miss Universe Organization CEO Mario Búcaro to release a statement on behalf of the organization detailing “all legal actions they will undertake as a result of the malicious acts committed by Nawat.”

A delegation of executives and diplomatic experts from the organization will also travel to Thailand to take control of the situation and event.