Following the recent controversy surrounding the 74th Miss Universe competition, Miss Grand International (MGI) President Nawat Itsaragrisil took to a live broadcast to share his side of the story, shedding light on the challenges and misunderstandings that have unfolded in the days leading to the event. Speaking with visible emotion, Nawat detailed the growing pressures he has faced while organizing one of the year’s most anticipated international pageants — and his hopes to resolve tensions moving forward.
Nawat began by emphasizing his desire to create grand, memorable events for all the delegates, but admitted that cooperation has been a major issue. He revealed that around 20 countries have refused to film sponsor videos, a key part of fulfilling event commitments. According to him, since MGI is covering all expenses, he merely asked the delegates to film sponsor materials “in return” — not as a burden, but as part of the pageant’s production requirements. He expressed frustration that some contestants were unwilling to do so, saying it created unnecessary problems during an already demanding schedule.
He also disclosed that he had to call for additional security during the Sashing Ceremony because he felt “afraid and uncomfortable,” sensing that tensions might escalate. Despite his calm demeanor on stage, he admitted to being under immense pressure and stress, dealing with one problem after another daily. “I just want everything to be safe and fair,” he said, explaining that the mounting issues have taken a toll on his peace of mind.
Among his other concerns, Nawat addressed reports of unequal treatment, particularly toward Latina candidates who were said to have formed their own groups. He insisted that he wants fairness for all delegates, regardless of nationality, and revealed that he had already apologized to the remaining 75 candidates for the incident that sparked controversy earlier. He reiterated his goal of providing a five-star service to all contestants, although he acknowledged that some were difficult to manage.
Touching on his relationship with the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), Nawat clarified that there were no MUO officials currently in Thailand at the time of his live broadcast but confirmed that an urgent meeting was scheduled later that afternoon. He praised MUO CEO Mario Búcaro, describing him as a kind and professional leader who communicates promptly and shares the same vision of delivering a high-quality event. “We go in the same direction — to make a good show and a good experience for everyone,” Nawat stated.
The MGI President also shared that he has heavily invested in the 74th Miss Universe competition to ensure that all participants enjoy their time in Thailand, especially in the host cities of Phuket and Pattaya. “I want everyone to have a good experience,” he said, noting that he only wants the best for both the delegates and the audience. While he professed admiration for Mexico as a country, he admitted that the recent situation involving Miss Mexico had been “too much and too hard.” Nonetheless, he promised that he would personally ensure her safety and well-being, assuring fans that “everything will be fine.”
Moving forward, Nawat made several commitments. He vowed not to pressure delegates to film sponsor videos anymore, saying participation would now be entirely voluntary. He also promised to care for all delegates to the best of his ability and to guarantee that incidents like this would never happen again. “From now, everyone will be free to do what they want without any condition,” he emphasized.
As he ended his live broadcast, Nawat extended an apology to fans and followers who were disappointed or confused by recent events, urging them to understand his side as well. He explained that he had faced numerous problems in just three days and was doing his best to balance everyone’s expectations. “Please understand me. I am human, and I feel stressed every day,” he said. Despite the difficulties, he remains optimistic that with MUO’s arrival and collaboration, things will improve soon and peace will be restored among all parties involved.