Italy Mora representing Panama has been sent packing from the Miss Universe pageant after she allegedly paid her boyfriend a visit in his hotel room.
Mora,19, has now missed the opportunity of participating in the pageant billed for Saturday, Nov. 16, in Mexico City, Mexico, with 130 contestants vying for recognition.
Miss Universe organisers said they took the action after an “exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission” over the purported “personal error.”
“It is important to note that we made this decision with the utmost respect for all parties involved,” they wrote. “Our No. 1 priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent and dedication.”
Addressing the allegations Mora claimed she left the camp after an argument with Miss Universe Panama Director César Anel Rodríguez over the event’s lack of organisation.
Mora’s boyfriend Juan Abadía, said he was Mexico to help her with needs like her food, hotel and clothing expenses including a $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress, which the organisers did not provide.
“There’s a lot of speculation that needs to be cleared up because it’s impacting my reputation, and emotionally, it’s been difficult,” said Mora.
“If I weren’t with my boyfriend, I’d be struggling even more.”
Mora added that she agreed to “take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences.”
Panama will not find a replacement for Mora.
