The messy Miss Universe news cycle did not end when the 2025 pageant crowned a winner on Nov. 21, as just days later, fourth runner-up Olivia Yacé publicly cut ties with the organization and resigned her title as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
The Côte d’Ivoire representative at the Bangkok pageant, 27, relinquished her title and ended her affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee, citing a desire to uphold the values dear to her heart, she wrote in an Nov. 24 Instagram post.
“I witnessed firsthand that I was capable of accomplishing great things despite adversity. But to continue on this path, I must remain true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity – the strongest pillars that guide me,” Yacé wrote.
The model did not specify a reason for her departure, which comes after a pageant plagued with a number of scandals.
In her post, Yacé said she must step down as an ambassador to reach her full potential and continue being a role model for a new generation of young girls whom she encourages to “push their limits, to walk confidently into rooms where they believe they do not belong, and to proudly embrace their identity.”
“It is this commitment to being a positive influence that guides my decision today. Stepping away from this diminished role of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania will allow me to dedicate myself fully to defending the values I hold dear,” she added.
Yacé’s action follows a 2025 pageant that prompted news headlines way ahead of its Nov. 21 ceremony. There were controversies surrounding a Thai national pageant director berating Fernández, judge Omar Harfouch alleging vote rigging while resigning just days before showtime, and an investigation into Raúl Rocha Cantú for alleged drug, gun and fuel trafficking.
Olivia Yacé congratulates Miss Universe winner Fátima Bosch Fernández
In her resignation post, Yacé congratulated the 2025 winner, Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch Fernández, and offered best wishes for Jamaica’s Gabrielle Henry, whose tumble off the stage during the evening gown competition led to additional less than-favorable pageant coverage.
“I would also like to extend my congratulations to the new Miss Universe. I also wish Miss Universe Jamaica a swift recovery and send her all my affection,” Yacé wrote without naming Fernández or Henry.
She also encouraged Black, African, Caribbean, American and Afro-descendant communities to keep entering spaces where they are not expected.
“Let us open the way for the brothers and sisters who will follow us. Never let anyone define who we are or limit our potential. Our presence matters, and our voices must be heard,” she wrote.
She continued: “I am deeply grateful for the support I have received and for the unforgettable experiences that have shaped me. I will now continue my journey differently, with the same determination to uplift and inspire. Thank you to all those who have been part of this exceptional adventure. Let us continue to defend our values and strive for greatness together.”