Sarah Dzafce has been stripped of her Miss Finland 2025 title after a social media post sparked outrage.
The 22-year-old faced criticism for a photo in which she pulled the corners of her eyes with the caption “kiinalaisenkaa syömäs,” roughly translating to “eating with a Chinese person.” The post was reportedly shared by a friend without Dzafce’s knowledge, according to the Helsinki Times.
“The title of Miss Finland held by Sarah Dzafce has been revoked as of today,” the Miss Finland organization said on Instagram. “This decision is not about a person’s human worth, but about responsibility. When an individual carries a national and international representative role, actions and responsibility are inseparable.”
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Dzafce competed in this year’s Miss Universe pageant, placing in the Top 30, and issued an apology on Instagram. “I fully understand that my actions have caused ill will in many people and I am deeply sorry for that,” she wrote. “I want to apologize, especially to those who have been personally affected by this situation. That was not my intention in any way.”
At a press conference in Helsinki, Dzafce added, “The Miss Finland title is not just a crown for me, it is also a responsibility. I take responsibility for my actions and will learn from them moving forward.”
Miss Finland National Director Sunneva Sjögren said the decision was necessary. “The title of Miss Finland requires a high level of responsibility. In this situation, the conditions required to continue in this role were not met,” she said.
Tara Lehtonen, 25, the first runner-up, was crowned Miss Finland 2025. “I promise to carry this title with pride and deep respect,” Lehtonen wrote on Instagram. “This is not just a title, but a responsibility and a sign of trust.”