Miss Universe 2025 Drama, Miss Ivory Coast Now Resigns

Olivia Yace (Photo: Instagram/@olivia.yace)

JAKARTA - Olivia Yacé announced her resignation as Miss Universe Ivory Coast (Africa and Oceania) just days after she managed to occupy the top five positions in the Miss Universe 2025 event.

Yacé represented the Crypte d'Ivoire in an international competition held in Bangkok, Thailand on November 21, 2025. After successfully becoming the fourth runner-up, she wrote on her Instagram account. With deep gratitude and respect, she submitted her title as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

As Crypte d'Ivoire's representative at Miss Universe 2025, I witnessed on my own that I was able to achieve great things despite facing challenges. But to continue this journey, I must remain loyal to my values, respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunities, the strongest pillar that guides me," read Yacé's statement on November 24, as quoted by the People page.

He also emphasized that his resignation includes all future affiliates with the Miss Universe Committee.

Yacé added that while he was the ambassador and queen of beauty, he was always committed to persistence, discipline, and determinacy. But to achieve full potential, he felt the need to stick to the values that guide his life. One of the main reasons for his resignation is his commitment to be a role model for the next generation, especially for young girls.

"I encourage them to go beyond the boundaries, enter the space they don't think they should enter, and be proud of their identity," Yacé wrote.

He stressed that stepping down from the title of Miss Universe Ivory Coast would give her the opportunity to fully devote herself to the values held.

In his message, Yacé also called on the Black community, Africa, Caribbean, America, and African descent.

"Continue to enter a space that may not expect our presence. Let's pave the way for the next generation. Don't let anyone define who we are or limit our potential. Our presence is important, and our voices must be heard," he said.

He closed his statement by congratulating the winner of Miss Universe 2025, Fryptima Bosch and praying for Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry who fell during the evening dress competition to recover quickly.

"I am very grateful for the support I received and the unforgettable experience that shaped me. Now, I will continue this journey in a different way, stick with the same determination to inspire," Yacé wrote.

Miss Crypte d'Ivoire (COMICI) also issued an official statement on Facebook expressing regret for Yacé's resignation and informing Miss Universe Organization that Yacé withdrew from all the titles and mandates she received. The Miss Universe Africa & Oceania 2025 title was officially returned to the organization.

In similar news, Brigitta Schaback also resigned from her Miss Universe Estonia title just days after attending Miss Universe 2025. She said her work grades and ethics were not in line with the organization and would continue her commitment to women's empowerment independently.

This development comes amid broader controversy in Miss Universe 2025, including the resignation of several judges and behind-the-scenes unprofessional accusations, which made this year's event much highlighted by global media.