Miss Finland 2025 was dethroned after a racism scandal. The gesture that left her without a crown

The organizers of the Miss Finland pageant officially withdrew the title held by Sarah Dzafce, just three months after she had won the 2025 edition, following a wave of criticism generated by a photo considered racially offensive, notes complex.com.

Sarah Dzafce PHOTO: Instagram

According to Finnish public broadcaster Yle, the decision was announced at a press conference in Helsinki on Thursday, December 11. With the withdrawal of the title, the first runner-up, Tara Lehtonen, was named the new Miss Finland 2025.

The scandal erupted in late November after an image of Sarah Dzafce pulling the corners of her eyes — a gesture often associated with mocking Asian features, particularly almond-shaped or monolidal eyes — circulated online. The photo was accompanied by a message in Finnish that translates to “I eat with a Chinese”which amplified the negative reactions on social networks.

PHOTO Instagram

Dzafce initially denied the allegations, claiming that the photo was taken at a time when he had a severe headache and was massaging his temples. She also stated that the message attached to the image was added by a friend, not her. The explanations did not calm public opinion, however, and the situation worsened after Dzafce published a video from a Finnair business class flight, interpreted by many as minimizing the scandal. The clip was later deleted.

During the press conference, Sarah Dzafce apologized publicly.

“I want to express my deepest apologies to everyone I have hurt, especially the Asian community. Racism is not acceptable in any form.” she stated.

Miss Suomi CEO Sunneva Sjögren explained that the organization revised its original position after internal discussions and direct conversations with Dzafce, especially after her return from November's Miss Universe pageant, where she represented Finland.

“Miss Finland represents the country internationally and this role comes with clear responsibilities. Racism goes against our values”Sjögren said.

PHOTO Instagram

New title holder Tara Lehtonen, 25, said she was taken aback by the news.

“I was at work when I got the call. It took me a few moments to process the information”said Lehtonen, who later added in a social media post: “I promise to wear this title with pride and deep respect.”