Mexican businessman and co-owner of the Miss Universe pageant Raúl Rocha has decided to take legal action against Chilean photographer Jordi Castell following misogynistic and sexist remarks Castell made about Mexico's contestant, María Fernanda Beltrán.
The comments surfaced days after the latest edition of Miss Universe, where Denmark's Victoria Kjær claimed the crown. Castell's statements, which directly insulted the Mexican representative, quickly went viral on social media.
Castell insinuated that María Fernanda's Top 5 placement was due to sexual favors. He stated, "I think... let's be transparent. Raquel, the host of the program where I work, said the situation was suspicious when a contest is involved. Who knows, maybe the Mexican slept with someone to get there..."
In defense of the former contestant and other participants, Rocha has vowed to pursue justice. On social media, he shared details of the legal measures he plans to take.
"Dear and respected @sofaragon and @fersitabel! When I came across that video of that vile man, I immediately called my lawyers in NYC to start proceedings. I will file a strong lawsuit against him and go to the very end," Rocha explained.
The businessman expressed outrage over Castell's comments, emphasizing that all women deserve respect, whether they are beauty queens or not. He reaffirmed Miss Universe's commitment to defending women against such actions.
"Enough of using social media to slander, insult, and disrespect women. He will learn to respect all women and every participant. Similarly, the organization will not tolerate anyone disrespecting them," Rocha added. He encouraged people to report Castell's account and demand his dismissal from the media outlet he works for.
Rocha's comments were posted in response to a video shared by model Sofía Aragón, who also voiced her discontent with Castell's disparaging remarks.
The controversy sparked widespread outrage on social media, including among Castell's fellow Chileans, some of whom expressed embarrassment and apologized on behalf of their country.
Many welcomed Rocha's lawsuit, noting this is not the first time Castell has made disparaging remarks about women. In the coming days, further details about the legal actions Castell will face are expected, as calls to fire him grow to prevent him from continuing to air denigrating messages about women.
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