Miss Universe contestant expelled over personal scandal

Days before the grand finale of Miss Universe 2024, the contestant representing Panama was disqualified due to a personal scandal.

Although, the official reasons for her disqualification haven't been disclosed yet, rumors going on are hinting at her unauthorized visit to her boyfriend's hotel room, as per a report by the New York Post.

Italy Mora allegedly visited her boyfriend Juan Abadia in his hotel room in Mexico without the permission of the organizers.

However, Italy Mora refuted the rumors and alleged that she got turned out from the competition for an argument over the lack of organization of the event, with the director of Miss Universe Panama, Cesar Anel Rodriguez. During the argument, her boyfriend was present there and as the dispute intensified, Abadia revealed of covering her expenses which included the Carolina Herrera dress 7000 dollars due to the organisation's alleged neglect.

Mora revealed, "Cesar said he didn't have the money to cover the hotel or makeup costs."

The last straw came when the pageant staff found out Mora was with Abadia, which fueled the claims of an unauthorized visit to his hotel room.

Despite her efforts to pageant officials, the decision was final. Mora confirmed her departure, expressing disappointment and noting that she complied with directions without foreseeing the consequences. "There's a lot of speculation that needs to be cleared up because it's impacting my reputation, and emotionally, it's been difficult. If I weren't with my boyfriend, I'd be struggling even more," Mora said.

The Pageant management team stated that she had undergone an "exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission" regarding the alleged "personal error."

"It is important to note that we made this decision with the utmost respect for all parties involved. Our number one priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent, and dedication," Miss Universe representatives wrote while addressing her dismissal in a statement.

The 19-year-old was ready to compete with 130 international delegates at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City on November 16. After her disqualification, the Miss Panama Organization released a statement saying they had arranged for her return to Panama.