Courtesy: Pageant Analyst
OLIVIA Yace of Côte d’Ivoire has officially resigned from her position as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania, as announced by the Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee.
This decision comes amidst swirling controversies surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, adding fuel to the fire of allegations and disputes that have emerged since the coronation event.
Yace, who placed as fourth runner-up in the competition, will formally return her sash, marking a definitive end to her reign as a continental queen.
The resignation follows statements made by Miss Universe Organization President Raul Rocha addressing claims of rigged results. These allegations gained traction after Omar Harfouch, a Lebanese-French musician and Miss Universe judge, resigned just two days before the coronation, labeling Fatima Bosch of Mexico, the crowned Miss Universe 2025, as a “fake Miss Universe.”
Rocha has denied that any judge resigned and defended the selection process, arguing that the qualities of a Miss Universe cannot be fully assessed during the brief time on stage.
The situation highlights deeper issues within the pageant world, including concerns about transparency, fairness, and the criteria used to select winners.
With other continental queens like Julia Ann Cluett of Malta, Zhaona Zena of China, and Stephany Abasali of Venezuela also holding their respective titles, the controversy surrounding Yace’s resignation and the broader allegations could potentially impact the credibility and reputation of the Miss Universe Organization. The Philippine bet, Ahtisa Manalo, finished as third runner-up in the pageant.
