Mario Bucaro, a 48-year-old Guatemalan businessman, has resigned as CEO of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) after only one month in the role. The announcement was made on the Miss Universe website on 12/12, with no reason disclosed for his departure. Bucaro was previously responsible for the organization's global strategy, finance, international relations, and operations.

Former CEO Mario Bucaro. Photo: Instagram/ Mario Bucaro

Bucaro assumed the CEO position in November, taking over from Jakapong "Anne" Jakrajutatip, who became the first transgender woman to lead the pageant before stepping down as CEO in June. In a recent statement, Bucaro affirmed that those who know and have worked with him are aware of his adherence to the highest ethical standards. He added that in every responsibility, he always strived to leave a positive impact on his colleagues.

The former CEO described his time with MUO as "an invaluable learning period," expressing honor at working with extraordinary women, excellent professionals, and an international community dedicated to empowering women. The MUO has not yet responded to international press inquiries regarding the matter.

The crowning moment of Mexico's representative, Fatima Bosch, 25, in the final round on 21/11. Video: FPT Play

According to People, Bucaro's decision follows a series of controversies that plagued this year's Miss Universe season in Thailand, which Bucaro helped oversee. Even before the final round, the pageant faced issues such as accusations from a former judge of an "opaque judging panel" and a dispute between Thailand's national director and then-contestant Fatima Bosch in a meeting in early November.

After the final awards ceremony, the competition continued to face allegations of fraud and discrimination among national representatives. Melissa Sapini, the contestant from Haiti, stated in an interview that the organizers failed to adequately care for the contestants' health, leading to many experiencing food poisoning.

In late November, Raul Rocha, the Mexican businessman and president of Miss Universe, was accused of cross-border arms, drug, and fuel smuggling. Rocha took over the pageant brand over one year ago after acquiring 50% of MUO's shares from Jakapong "Anne" Jakrajutatip's company in early 2024. In an interview with a Mexican journalist on 24/11, Rocha expressed his frustration with the current situation, indicating he was seeking someone to take over Miss Universe.

First held in 1952, Miss Universe is one of the world's most-watched beauty pageants, with 165 countries and territories purchasing broadcast rights. Former US President Donald Trump owned all shares of the brand from 1996 to 2015. He sold the program in September 2015 to talent management company WME-IMG, three months after announcing his first presidential bid. In 2022, Anne Jakrajutatip acquired the pageant for 20 million USD.

In recent years, the competition has implemented several rule changes to promote diversity, honoring women's resilience and healthy lifestyles beyond physical appearance. Since 2023, the Miss Universe Organization has allowed married women and mothers to compete.

Phuong Thao (according to People)