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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Germany, Iceland withdraw from 2025 Miss Universe beauty pageant

Germany, Iceland withdraw from 2025 Miss Universe beauty pageant

Published Nov 9, 2025 08:40 am
The candidates from Germany and Iceland have withdrawn from the 74th Miss Universe beauty pageant, which is ongoing in Thailand.
The candidates who withdrew from the competition were Diana Fast, Miss Universe Germany, and Helena O' Connor, Miss Universe Iceland.
Writing over a photo of herself on her Instagram Stories, Diana touched on the honor of representing her country as Miss Germany, saying that it had been "one of the most meaningful and empowering experiences of [her] life," per a screenshot shared online, according to a report by people.com, a popular entertainment site.
"I am endlessly grateful to be part of the Miss Universe family, surrounded by incredible women who inspire, uplift, and embody true purpose," Diana said.
Miss Universe Germany 2025 Diana Fast (Images courtesy of Instagram)
Miss Universe Germany 2025 Diana Fast (Images courtesy of Instagram)
However, "after deep reflection, I've decided that this year, I will not be traveling to Thailand."
Diana cited her role as a "devoted" mother as a factor in her decision, saying that, as she is "currently building a new home by myself for my family," she has "chosen to stay close to my son during this important phase of our lives."
"It's a conscious choice made from strength, love, and alignment," the German beauty queen wrote. She added that she will continue to carry the Miss Universe mission forward.
Miss Universe Iceland 2025 Helena O'Connor
Miss Universe Iceland 2025 Helena O'Connor
"Together with my organization, we've started by donating 30,000€ to a Thai animal sanctuary called Heartpawject, to give back to the beautiful Thai people and to honor the spirit of this year's host country," she said.
In a separate video message announcing the news of her donation, shared jointly by Diana and the official Miss Germany Instagram account, the pageant queen further confirmed that she would not be able to be in Thailand "in person."
"To all the amazing Miss Universe sisters competing in Thailand, I'm cheering for you with pride and admiration," Diana concluded her message, according to people.com.
Additionally, Helena announced that she had withdrawn from the competition due to illness. The full announcement:
The official statement from Miss Universe Iceland
The official statement from Miss Universe Iceland
More than 100 candidates are vying for the title of 2025 Miss Universe. The grand coronation will be broadcast live from Bangkok, Thailand, on Nov. 21.
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