Makelele Steps Down from Miss Universe Panel Amid Rigging Claims

Chelsea icon Claude Makelele Steps Down from Miss Universe Judging Panel

Chelsea icon Claude Makelele has stepped down from the Miss Universe judging panel just days before the 2025 pageant in Thailand, amid swirling allegations that the competition is rigged. The former Real Madrid and Chelsea midfielder was announced as a special guest judge for the prestigious event last month, marking a high-profile crossover from football to the world of pageantry. However, Makelele’s sudden withdrawal has cast a fresh spotlight on mounting controversy surrounding the competition.

Claude Makelele’s Unexpected Exit from Miss Universe

Makelele, celebrated for his integrity both on and off the pitch, was set to bring his footballing excellence to the Miss Universe 2025 panel. Special guests from various fields often headline the judging lineup, with past editions featuring stars like Steven Tyler and Adriana Lima. Makelele’s appointment was widely praised, with organizers citing his commitment to “excellence and integrity.” Miss Universe 2025, hosted in Thailand, promised its winner a lucrative £190,000 salary, a luxurious New York apartment, and global travel opportunities.

Yet, just days before the event, Makelele stepped down, citing “unforeseen personal circumstances.” In a heartfelt Instagram post, he wrote: “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.” He offered his apologies to the organization, contestants, and fans, hoping to contribute in the future under better circumstances.

Miss Universe Panel Turmoil Deepens

Makelele’s withdrawal is not an isolated incident. He is the second high-profile judge to exit the panel in quick succession, following Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch’s sensational resignation. Harfouch accused the Miss Universe organizers of rigging the selection process, alleging on social media that an “impromptu jury” pre-selected the Top 30 contestants prior to the official panel’s involvement. Harfouch further claimed the process involved individuals with personal ties to contestants, which he argues constitutes a severe conflict of interest.

Harfouch’s statement went further, revealing he had consulted legal experts to consider filing formal complaints with New York authorities against the Miss Universe Organization. He cited possible fraud, abuse of power, corruption, deception, breach of contract, and emotional as well as reputational damages. These allegations have intensified scrutiny of the pageant, already under the microscope after several contestants walked out of a pre-pageant event due to comments made by a Thai official.

Claude Makelele’s Career Off the Pitch

While Makelele’s playing career is the stuff of legend—he starred for Real Madrid, Chelsea, and the French national team, winning La Liga, the Premier League, the Champions League, and coming runner-up at the 2006 World Cup—his post-football journey has been less illustrious. Makelele held brief managerial roles at Bastia, Asteras Tripolis, and Eupen, but never matched the heights of his playing days.

His foray into the world of Miss Universe, though unconventional, was welcomed as a testament to his versatility and enduring reputation. However, the current controversy and his sudden departure may prompt the football legend to reconsider his future choices beyond the pitch.

Impact of Makelele’s Departure on Miss Universe 2025

The dual resignations of Makelele and Harfouch have cast a shadow over the upcoming Miss Universe final. The public’s trust in the competition’s fairness is under threat, and organizers now face the urgent task of restoring credibility ahead of the crowning moment. How the Miss Universe committee addresses these allegations could determine the reputation of the event for years to come.

Opinion: Integrity Should Prevail in All Arenas

Makelele’s decision to step away from the Miss Universe judging panel, especially amid such serious allegations, is a reminder that integrity should be non-negotiable, whether on the football field or in the world of pageantry. As the Miss Universe organization grapples with these claims, it’s vital that transparency and fairness remain at the forefront to preserve the prestige of the competition. For those seeking more details on this and the latest updates in sports and entertainment, visit our homepage for more news.