Miss France 2025 has crowned Angélique Angarni-Filopon from Martinique as its titleholder on December 14, captivating the audience with her poise and presence. The event was held at the Aréna stade couvert de Liévin, where Angarni-Filopon, 34, became the oldest winner in the history of the pageant, breaking the previous age limit of 24. She follows the footsteps of last year's titleholder, Eve Gilles.
Sabah Aib, the 18-year-old Miss Nord-Pas-de-Calais, finished as the first runner-up, making her regions proud. With her long curly hair and confident demeanor, Aib captivated viewers and secured the highest public vote, indicating her popularity among fans.
Despite being favored by many to win, Aib faced challenges leading up to the event. After her regional win, she was subjected to racist backlash on social media, largely due to her Moroccan heritage. "The France is a multicultural country, and having a name from elsewhere doesn't change the fact I am French," she defended herself online. She expressed pride in representing her diverse region, emphasizing the richness of cultural backgrounds.
During her competition, Aib showcased not only beauty but also intelligence, as she is currently pursuing her second year of law studies. Known for her modeling experience, she stood out among the competitors, many of whom have held various professions, marking the significance of diversity this year. The event not only spotlighted beauty but encouraged representation of all women.
Angélique Angarni-Filopon, born to Martinican parents, expressed her gratitude and honor during her acceptance speech. "It's an honor to stand before you. When I won the Miss Martinique contest, I told the Martiniquais we would do it together, and we did! Thank you!" she exclaimed emotionally. Her victory is historical for the competition, reflecting societal changes and the broader acceptance of women of all ages.
The Miss France 2025 event caught the attention of many for its format, where competitors donned swimwear, regional costumes, and evening gowns. For the first time, the contest included candidates from various professions, including doctors and even an animal osteopath, enhancing the notion of representation.
The jury this year was entirely female, featuring notable figures such as singer Sylvie Vartan and Olympic champion Marie-José Pérec. The choice of judges and the diversity of contestants highlighted the emphasis on encouraging women to embrace their backgrounds and talents.
Sabah Aib, recognized not only for her beauty but also her resilience—paving her way through adversity—has left her mark. Though she did not take home the crown, her role as first runner-up is significant, as she honors the legacy of illustrious Miss Nord-Pas-de-Calais titleholders such as Maëva Coucke and Iris Mittenaere.
Aib has expressed how this competition, which initially seemed foreign to her beliefs, opened doors to friendships with other women from diverse backgrounds. "This year, I believe Nord-Pas-de-Calais has all the chances again," Aib mentioned before the event, confident yet grounded.
While it remains to be seen how Angarni-Filopon's reign as Miss France 2025 will affect her community and broader initiatives, the new titleholder's career as cabin crew could bridge the gap between public service and personal passion. With plans for various engagements and responsibilities, including charitable work, her influence could potentially lead to significant impacts.
This year’s finale scored high on viewership, with over five thousand spectators present at the venue, showcasing the event's eternal appeal. The atmosphere was electric, filled with excitement as each candidate took to the stage, culminating in Angarni-Filopon’s crowning moment.
Angélique’s victory title signifies not just personal achievement but also symbolizes progress, breaking the norms of how beauty is defined and perceived within French society. Her age and experience injected new life and perspective to the competition.
With 30 contestants participating this year, the pageant's diversity and commitment to representation have generated discussions about beauty standards and age perceptions. Many hope this will influence other pageants worldwide to embrace inclusivity.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on both Angélique Angarni-Filopon and Sabah Aib, as each partakes the roles of ambassadors for their regions. Angarni-Filopon will have the opportunity to promote various social causes, and Sabah's experience will likely lead to more discussions about the role of women and diversity in beauty standards.
With this year’s titleholders poised to change the narrative around beauty pageants, many are eager to see how this evolution reflects on French culture and society as they continue to champion representation and diversity.
The Miss France competition remains not merely a pageant but serves as a platform driving conversations about identity and empowerment among women from all walks of life.
