Miss Universe 2025 to continue with adjusted format amid death of Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit
The Miss Universe pageant will push through with its 2025 edition in Thailand amid the recent death of the country's former Queen Sirikit. However, there will be a few changes in the format.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Miss Universe Organization Executive Director Nawat Itsaragrisil addressed concerns that the pageant's schedule will be affected by Sirikit's passing.
"Miss Grand International Public Company Limited, as the organizer of the 74th Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to be held from [Nov. 2 to 21] in Thailand, would like to inform that the event will proceed as originally planned," he said.
"This is because preparations and operations have been underway for some time, and some contestants and members of the international teams have already arrived in Thailand," he added.
However, Itsaragrisil stated that the committee will "adjust the format and related activities as appropriate to the circumstances" while strictly adhering to the guidelines and recommendations from the government.
The MUO had earlier expressed its sorrow on the passing of Sirikit on Oct. 25, prasing her as an "enduring symbol of grace, compassion, and devotion to the Thai people."
"On behalf of the entire Miss Universe Organization, its leadership, franchise partners, titleholders, and community worldwide, we extend our heartfelt condolences to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, the Royal Family, and the people of Thailand during this period of national mourning," it said.
Sirikit passed away in a hospital in Bangkok at the age of 93. She had been suffering from a blood infection since Oct. 17, and despite efforts to treat her, her condition did not improve.
She served as the Queen of Thailand from 1950 to 2016.
Her body was brought to Bangkok's Grand Palace to lie in state for a year-long funeral.
Ahtisa Manalo will represent the Philippines in the 74th Miss Universe pageant, which will see Victoria Theilvig of Denmark crowning her successor at the end of the event.