Miss Finland organizers have officially removed Sarah Dzafce’s title just three months after she won the 2025 competition, following widespread backlash over a photo that many viewed as racially offensive.
According to Yle, Finland’s public broadcaster, the Miss Suomi organization confirmed the decision at a press conference in Helsinki on Thursday, December 11.
Upon stripping Dzafce’s title, first runner-up Tara Lehtonen was immediately named the new titleholder.
The controversy began in late November when an image circulated online showing Dzafce pulling the corners of her eyes — a gesture widely associated with mocking Asian eyes, which usually have a palpebral slant and a monolid.
The photo included a Finnish caption that translated to “eating with a Chinese,” which further intensified criticism as it spread on social media.
Dzafce initially pushed back against the interpretation, saying the image was taken while she was experiencing severe headaches and that she was massaging her temples. She also stated that the caption was added by a friend, not by her directly.
Despite those explanations, public reaction grew sharper, particularly after Dzafce shared a separate video from a Finnair business-class flight, which viewers interpreted as dismissive of the backlash. That video has since been deleted.
At the press event, Dzafce issued a direct apology.
“I want to offer my deepest apologies to everyone I have hurt, especially the Asian community,” she said. “Racism is in no way acceptable.”
Miss Suomi CEO Sunneva Sjögren said the organization reconsidered its initial stance after internal discussions and conversations with Dzafce, particularly following her return from the Miss Universe competition in November. Dzafce represented Finland at Miss Universe this year, a pageant that has recently faced significant criticism and controversy.
“Miss Finland represents the country internationally,” Sjögren said. “That role comes with responsibility. Racism contradicts our values.”
Tara Lehtonen, 25, said she was surprised by the call informing her that she would assume the title.
“I was at work when I got the call,” Lehtonen said. “I needed a moment to process it.”
She added that she aims to approach the role with respect and awareness, writing on social media, “I promise to carry this title with pride and deep respect.”