A former Premier League legend has stepped down from his judging position at the Miss Universe pageant following allegations that the competition was fixed.
Claude Makelele, who celebrated his birthday this week, initially welcomed the opportunity to serve as a judge, with organizers perhaps hoping his renowned decision-making on the football pitch would translate to the runway. At the time of his appointment, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder expressed his openness to the new experience.
"I think in life you need to have many experiences and my people who work with me presented me with this kind of opportunity," Makelele said. "So why not? We all come from ladies, we were born from ladies. We also have a family, we have a wife and we have a girlfriend. Yes, the women in general are beautiful women. We love to see beautiful women, it's normal. It will be my first experience, so I thought why not?"
However, the Frenchman never got the chance to judge the contestants in Thailand. He withdrew from his duties amid accusations that the event was rigged.
Makelele announced his departure on Instagram, writing: "It is with regret that I must announce that I won’t be able to attend the Miss Universe 2025 event due to unforeseen personal reasons. This was a difficult decision, as I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence - values I have always championed throughout my career. I sincerely apologise to the organisation, the contestants, and everyone involved, and I hope to be able to contribute in the future under better circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support."
Makelele followed musician Omar Harfouch, who also quit his role with the pageant. Harfouch has stated he is preparing to file a formal complaint against the Miss Universe Organization, alleging serious misconduct.
According to Harfouch, "The issues under review include, but are not limited to: fraud, abuse of power, corruption, deception, breach of contract, conflict of interest, and emotional and reputational damages." He further claimed that "a secret and illegitimate vote was held to determine the Top 30 contestants before the arrival of the official jury. This vote was conducted by individuals who are not recognized members of the official judging panel, including at least one person with a personal romantic relationship with a contestant. A fact which constitutes a clear and serious conflict of interest and may qualify as collusion and manipulation of an international competition."
