Sat Nov 16 19:36:29 UTC 2024: ## Panama’s Miss Universe Hopeful Expelled After Hotel Room Visit
**Mexico City, Mexico –** Italy Mora, the 19-year-old representing Panama in the Miss Universe pageant, has been expelled from the competition just days before the final event. While the Miss Universe organization cited a “personal error” and “exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission,” reports suggest Mora’s dismissal stems from an unauthorized visit to her boyfriend’s hotel room.
Mora claims the situation arose from a heated argument with Miss Universe Panama Director César Anel Rodríguez over alleged organizational failings, including a lack of provision for food, hotel fees, and even a crucial $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress. Her boyfriend, Juan Abadía, who traveled to Mexico to assist her, corroborated these claims. However, pageant staff reportedly witnessed Mora with Abadía in his hotel room, leading to the expulsion.
Mora maintains her relationship with Abadía helped her navigate the difficulties she faced due to alleged organizational shortcomings. She attempted to appeal the decision but ultimately accepted responsibility for her actions.
The Miss Universe organization released a statement emphasizing their commitment to the welfare and transparency of all contestants, but Panama will not be sending a replacement contestant this year. The organization plans to focus on selecting a delegate for the 2024 competition. The incident leaves a cloud over Panama’s participation in this year’s Miss Universe pageant, scheduled for Saturday, November 16th.
First Piper 