Gemany's Diana Fast withdraws from Miss Universe pageant
Earlier this week, Miss Germany 2025 Diana Fast announced on social media that she has given up her spot in the 2025 Miss Universe pageant.
On Instagram Stories, Fast began by acknowledging the extraordinary privilege of representing Germany.
“[It] has been one of the most meaningful and empowering experiences of my life. I am endlessly grateful to be part of the Miss Universe family, surrounded by incredible women who inspire, uplift, and embody true purpose,” the beauty queen wrote.
Still, Fast said she would be pulling out of the international competition to take care of her family.
“After deep reflection, I’ve decided that this year, I will not be traveling to Thailand. As a devoted mother and while currently building a new home by myself for my family, I’ve chosen to stay close to my son during this important phase of our lives,” Fast said.
Her decision, Fast said, was one made from “strength, love, and alignment.”
It didn’t mean, however, that she would completely live free of the Miss Universe influence.
“I will continue to carry the Miss Universe mission forward, to inspire, to serve, and to make a difference through meaningful projects here and internationally,” she wrote.
To end her statement, Fast addressed her fellow beauty queens: “To all the amazing Miss Universe sisters competing in Thailand, I’m cheering for you with pride and admiration. The crown shines brightest when it reflects love, integrity, and purpose.”
In a video posted on Miss Universe Germany's Instagram, where Fast was tagged, Fast reiterated the organization's support for her decision and talked about their joint effort to donate €30,000 (P2 million) to Heartpawject, a Thai animal sanctuary.
Fast said the gesture was meant “to give back to the beautiful Thai people and to honor the spirit of this year’s host country.”
"With grace, heart, and purpose, Diana Fast has redefined what it means to wear the crown," the organization wrote.
"The first Miss Universe Germany to bring true pageantry back to our country, merging elegance, intellect, and impact. A woman of strength and compassion, leading with both beauty and purpose."
Neither Fast nor the organization made any indication that her decision was prompted by recent pre-pageant events in Bangkok.
Earlier this week, Miss Universe national director Nawat Itsagrisil had a tense exchange with Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch about her absence at a sponsor shoot, as well as her missing social media posts about the pageant’s host country.
The public reprimand prompted Bosch, reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Thielvig, and a few other delegates to stage a walkout of the pre-pageant event. In turn, the viral walkout led to Miss Universe Organization president Raúl Rocha restricting Itsagrisil's participation in subsequent Miss Universe activities.