Miss Universe Contestant Disqualified for Unauthorized Visit to Boyfriend's Hotel Room

Italy Mora, the 19-year-old Miss Universe contestant representing Panama, has been expelled from the competition just days before its grand finale, scheduled for November 16, 2024, in Mexico City.

The decision came after allegations surfaced that Mora made an unauthorized visit to her boyfriend, Juan Abadía's hotel room, violating the pageant's rules. This incident led to her expulsion following an "exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission," as stated by the Miss Universe organization.

Mora, however, disputes this narrative, claiming her removal was due to a disagreement with Cesar Anel Rodriguez, the director of Miss Universe Panama, over the event's disorganization and unmet promises.

She alleged that Rodriguez failed to provide adequate support, forcing her boyfriend to step in and cover expenses, including a $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress and hotel fees.

Mora explained that Rodriguez facilitated access to her boyfriend's room, adding to the confusion. "There are chats where Cesar says: 'You have to give Italy the key to go up to the room at dawn,'" she shared, providing evidence of the coordination.

The situation escalated when pageant staff discovered Mora and Abadía in the hotel room, leading to speculation and ultimately her disqualification. Despite Mora's efforts to plead her case, the decision remained final.

She expressed her disappointment, acknowledging the organization's rules but lamenting the lack of clarity and fairness. "I take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences," she stated.

Following her disqualification, the Miss Panama Organization claimed they arranged Mora's return to Panama, a claim she countered by revealing that a mutual acquaintance and Rodriguez actually covered the travel expenses. As of now, Rodriguez has not publicly addressed the allegations, focusing instead on the competition's preparations.