Osmel Sousa Steps Down from Miss Universe Organization, Cites Desire to Return to Venezuela
Osmel Sousa, a dominant figure in the world of beauty pageants, has resigned from his position within the Miss Universe Organization, effective three weeks ago following his duties at the recent Miss Universe 2025 competition. Sousa emphasized the decision was not due to conflict with the organization, but a personal desire to return to his home country of Venezuela and be closer to family and friends.
“My affection for Miss Universe and my commitment to the beauty and advancement of new generations remains intact. This experience has left me with invaluable learning, which I will always carry with me,” Sousa stated. He further explained, “Being far from my Venezuela and, even more so, living in a place completely alone, already at a certain age, made me reflect deeply. At this point in my life, I felt that I should be surrounded by loved ones who have always accompanied me, supported and understood me, both in the good times and in the difficult ones. That is why I made the decision to return to my land, to that place that has always given me strength to move forward.”
Despite stepping down from Miss Universe, Sousa indicated he will continue pursuing other projects within the beauty industry, stating, “While it is indeed true that I decided to step aside, it is also true that now, more than ever, there is Osmel for a while.”
Sousa’s departure marks the end of a important era.He began his involvement with beauty pageants in the 1970s with Miss Venezuela,becoming president of the contest in 1981. Under his leadership, Venezuela achieved unparalleled success, earning seven Miss Universe crowns, six Miss World crowns, and seven Miss International crowns, among other international titles.
He is credited with mentoring iconic queens including irene Sáez,Alicia machado,Dayana Mendoza,Stefania Fernández,and Gabriela Isler,solidifying Venezuela’s reputation as a “queen factory.” Sousa’s rigorous training regimen - encompassing public speaking, runway technique, general knowledge, and stage presence - established a benchmark for excellence in beauty pageants throughout latin America.
The Miss Universe Organization has not yet announced a successor to Sousa.
