Miss Universe 2025 runner-up Olivia Yace renounces continental title, cuts ties with pageant committee

Olivia Yace Renounces Miss Universe Africa & Oceania Title

In a dramatic turn of events following the Miss Universe 2025 finale in Bangkok, Ivory Coast’s Olivia Yace, who finished as fourth runner-up, has announced her resignation from the continental title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania.

Just days after receiving the sash, Yace took to Instagram to declare that she was stepping down from the honor and severing ties with the Miss Universe Committee.

Her statement emphasized values of respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity as guiding principles. Yace explained that while she had proven her ability to achieve great things despite adversity, she could not continue on a path that conflicted with her personal convictions. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity but underscored the importance of remaining true to her beliefs.

In her announcement, Yace also delivered a powerful message to Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities, urging them to pursue opportunities in spaces where they are often underrepresented. She stressed that their presence matters and that their voices must be heard.

The Miss Ivory Coast Committee later confirmed her withdrawal from all titles, noting that she would formally return her Africa & Oceania sash. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, with many observers suggesting that Yace’s strong performance during the question-and-answer segment should have earned her a higher placement in the competition.

Her resignation comes amid a wave of controversies surrounding Miss Universe 2025. Brigitta Schaback, crowned Miss Universe Estonia, also relinquished her title citing misalignment with the values of her national director.

Additionally, French-Lebanese musician Omar Harfouch, who resigned from the judging panel before the final, criticized the outcome by calling newly crowned Miss Universe Fatima Bosch of Mexico a “fake winner.” Former Miss Universe Catriona Gray added to the debate by questioning the relevance of the pageant’s question-and-answer segment.

Despite the turbulence, Yace concluded her announcement with grace, congratulating Bosch on her victory and wishing Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry a swift recovery after Henry was hospitalized following a fall during the preliminary evening gown competition.

Olivia Yace’s decision marks a significant moment in pageant history, highlighting the growing tension between traditional pageant structures and the evolving values of contestants who demand integrity, representation, and fairness. Her withdrawal not only reshapes the narrative of Miss Universe 2025 but also amplifies conversations about inclusivity and authenticity in global competitions.