Ex-Miss Universe Panama points to lack of support from national organization
MANILA, Philippines — The controversial withdrawal of Panama's Italy Mora from the 73rd Miss Universe pageant continues to develop as the booted beauty queen pointed to lack of support from her national organization.
Earlier this month, the Miss Universe Organization confirmed Mora's withdrawal from the competition after an "exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary committee."
It did not reveal a reason for her withdrawal, stressing the "importance of maintaining confidentiality and respect" though the decision was made with "the utmost respect for all parties involved."
A social media announcement from the Miss Panama Organization mentioned that Mora was allegedly found outside her assigned room with someone not part of the pageant and no official makeup artists present.
In an interview with local outlet "La Mordida," Mora said she coordinated with her national organization's head César Anel Rodríguez that she would meet with her boyfriend Juan Abadía to collect some items.
Mora claimed Abadía covered hotel room and makeup fees as Rodríguez could not afford them, leading to a dispute between the two over preparations and rising tensions that ended with Rodríguez leaving the couple in a room.
Related: Miss Universe issues statement regarding Miss Panama's withdrawal
Some time later, pageant staff arrived at the room and found Mora with Abadía. The beauty queen acknowledged speculations would emerge by seeing them together alone but stressed Rodríguez was just with them.
"Miss Universe just followed their rules. I take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences," the 19-year-old Mora did say.
Abadía backed Mora's claims, saying he provided critical financial and logistical support and was only at the hotel at Rodríguez's request.
Mora met up with Miss Universe officials thinking she would be reprimanded or receive a warning, but instead was told of her withdrawal, which she tried to overturn but to no effect.
Panama declined to send a new delegate to replace Mora and will not be represented at Miss Universe 2024.
Nearly 130 contestants remain vying to succeed Nicaragua's Sheynnis Palacios, including four Filipinas led by the Philippines' Chelsea Manalo.
RELATED: Miss Panama reveals reason behind Miss Universe 2024 withdrawal
