Panamanian Contestant Suddenly Disqualified From Miss Universe 2024, Why?

Panamanian contestant Italy Mora at Miss Universe 2024 (Instagram)

JAKARTA - The Miss Universe organization disqualified Panamanian contestant Italy Mora from the Miss Universe 2024 event, which is scheduled to be held in Mexico on November 16. The Miss Panama's disqualification was delivered directly through an official statement.

Launching fromuan, on Thursday, November 7, 2024, disqualification of Italy Mora was carried out after a thorough evaluation conducted by the Miss Universe disciplinary committee. They said that the disqualification was the right action to take against Miss Panama.

"Based on the information gathered and reviewed, it has been concluded that the withdrawal (disqualification) is the most appropriate action in the current situation," Miss Universe said in a statement.

Miss Universe also confirmed that the disqualification decision had been considered with the other parties concerned. They also emphasize about transparency that is always enforced for the contestants.

"It is important to note that we made this decision with the greatest respect to all parties involved. Our top priority remains on welfare and transparency for all of our contestants, who exemplify diversity, talent and dedication," he added.

However, the statement did not explain the reason why Miss Panama Italy Mora should be disqualified from Miss Universe 2024. This raises a question mark, especially now that all contestants have been quarantined in Mexico.

Italy Mora himself has also released a statement about himself being disqualified from Miss Universe 2024. He admitted that he had been informed of this since November 1, 2024.

Mora said that he was expelled because he was deemed not to comply with the applicable rules during the quarantine period. He is said to have left the room to make up his face and took his belongings.

Despite admitting his mistake, Italy Mora felt the disqualification penalty was too heavy. Moreover, participating in the event he not only brought his own name, but also Panamanian countries and people.