On 11/12, the Miss Finland organization announced on Instagram that it had revoked the title of Sarah Dzafce, 22. First runner-up Tara Lehtonen, 23, replaced Dzafce. According to the statement, this decision was not about anyone's personal values, but a matter of responsibility.

"When an individual takes on a representative role at national and international levels, actions and responsibilities are inseparable," the post stated. Sarah Dzafce has not yet responded to the media regarding the issue.

The Helsinki Times reported that Dzafce received the disciplinary action after a photo of her making an unusual pose circulated on social media from late November. Many people believed she was mocking East Asian features, implying racism. According to the news outlet, the image was initially shared by a friend in a private chat group, with the caption: "Eating with Chinese people" (Kiinalaisen kaa syömäs).

The photo believed to be racist, featuring Miss Finland Sarah Dzafce. Photo: Helsinki Times

In an interview with Ilta-Sanomat in early December, Sarah Dzafce explained that her actions in the photo were a reaction to a headache and eye strain while eating. She asserted that her friend added the caption without her consent.

The Helsinki Times also reported that criticism of Dzafce intensified after she posted a video of herself on a Finnair flight. In the video, she stated: "Everyone hates me while I'm in Finnair's business class." Viewers interpreted this as contempt for the public and arrogance. The content was deleted shortly after.

Former Miss Finland Sarah Dzafce. Photo: Instagram/ Sarah Dzafce

From 8/12, Sarah Dzafce began posting apologies to the public on her personal page. She stated that she recognized her actions had hurt many people and that she did not intend to do so. "I know I need to learn many things to grow. One of the most important things for me is to respect everyone, as well as their backgrounds and differences," her post read.

The Miss Finland organization also continuously addressed Sarah Dzafce's situation throughout the past week, issuing statements on social media. Alongside their apology, they reiterated the competition's values, affirming that they do not tolerate ethnic discrimination or prejudice in any form. Before making the decision to revoke the crown, the leadership held a direct meeting with Dzafce.

From left: First runner-up Tara Lehtonen, director Sunneva Sjögren, and Sarah Dzafce at an event. Photo: Lehtikuva

Speaking to People, Sunneva Sjögren, executive director of Miss Finland, commented that Sarah Dzafce's recent social media activities had disappointed the people of Finland and international audiences. Although they would no longer be working together, the organization's representatives wished Sarah Dzafce well, encouraging her continued growth and learning.

According to Sjögren, the competition will provide two packages of support services, including therapy sessions and media handling guidance for the former beauty queen until 9/2026. Additionally, she remains welcome at future Miss Finland events.

"As a long-standing national organization, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure that no representative faces difficulties alone. Therefore, we offer support as an option, while respecting the autonomy and aspirations of each individual," she added.

Sarah Dzafce was crowned Miss Finland in September, representing her country at Miss Universe in Thailand in November. Currently, there is not much information available about Dzafce, other than that she grew up in a multicultural family with a Kosovan father and a Finnish mother.

The moment Sarah Dzafce was crowned Miss Universe Finland in September. Video: Miss Universe

Miss Finland was first held in 1931, also known as Miss Suomi. Last year's winner was Matilda Wirtavuori, born in 2000. Since 1952, the winner represents the nation at Miss Universe. In the inaugural season, Finland's Armi Kuusela won the top title. In 1975, history repeated itself when Anne Marie Pohtamo was named the winner.

Phuong Thao (according to People)