Magalí Benejam, the Miss Universe contestant who represented Argentina in 2024, has been stripped of her title following allegations she made about the competition being rigged.
Benejam, a 30-year-old from Córdoba, voiced her controversial claims during a live YouTube broadcast with content creator King Lucho.
During the interview, Benejam suggested the final results were predetermined and accused the competition of being “fixed” yearly.
She cited judges’ reactions during the announcement of the Top 5, claiming they appeared confused and displeased. “They started looking at each other as if to say, ‘This is not what we chose,’” Benejam stated, according to a translation by the Latin Times.
Benejam criticised the winner, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, and Puerto Rican contestant Jennifer Colón, who also placed in the Top 12.
She alleged that Theilvig had an unfair advantage, claiming she had three security guards during the competition’s final days and that the outcome was decided 10 days before the event.
Benejam also described Colón as unfriendly and wearing “the worst” gown of the night.
Despite losing, Benejam posted an Instagram reel labelling herself as having “The best body of this Miss Universe,” further fueling controversy.
On January 2, the Miss Universe Organization announced that it would announce the immediate withdrawal of her title.
The organization cited its core principles of diversity, inclusion, and respect, stating Benejam’s remarks violated these values.
“The decision comes after careful consideration and aligns with our commitment to uphold the highest standards of personal and professional conduct,” the statement read.
The organization emphasized the need to protect its integrity and the opportunities it provides to women globally. While Benejam has not publicly responded to losing her title, she has yet to remove “Miss Universe Argentina 2024” from her Instagram bio.
