Miss Ivory Coast Renounces Title Ahead of Miss Universe 2025 Competition
Abidjan, Ivory Coast – Miss Ivory Coast, Audrey Maïga, has voluntarily relinquished her title, effective promptly, organizers confirmed today, November 21, 2024. The decision comes just weeks before the Miss Universe 2025 competition, scheduled to be held in Mexico. No specific reason was initially provided for Maïga’s renunciation, though a statement released by the Miss Ivory Coast committee cited “personal reasons” and wished her well in her future endeavors.
The unexpected development throws the Ivorian representation in the upcoming Miss Universe competition into uncertainty. According to the official rules of the Miss universe Organization, the first runner-up, Miss Ivory Coast 2024, Sarah Houé, will assume the title and represent the nation in Mexico. This marks a significant shift as houé now prepares to compete on the international stage with limited time to prepare for the demanding competition.
The Miss Universe competition, now in its 74th year, is a globally recognized platform promoting female empowerment, leadership, and cultural exchange. The event attracts millions of viewers worldwide and serves as a launchpad for the careers of many former contestants. The 2025 competition is particularly significant as it will be held in Mexico for the first time since 1993, and is expected to draw considerable media attention and tourism to the host country.The Miss Universe Organization has not yet commented on the implications of Maïga’s decision beyond acknowledging the change in representation from Ivory Coast.