The Miss France 2025 pageant took place on December 14, 2024, at the Futuroscope arena near Poitiers, marking the end of Eve Gilles' reign as Miss France 2024. This year’s edition featured 30 contestants competing for the coveted crown under the theme "Le Grand Bal des Miss". The event was not without its drama, particularly surrounding Marine Futol, Miss Réunion, who faced serious challenges leading up to the election.
During the preparatory trip to Côte d'Ivoire, Futol experienced a painful mishap; she stepped on a large fish bone, causing injury to her foot. Initially, her situation raised concerns among her team, including Aziz Patelle, the director of the Miss Réunion committee. "Miss Réunion is doing muchbetter," Patelle said during the ceremony rehearsals, alleviating fears about Futol's well-being. "She was unable to participate for about a week, but since arriving at Poitiers, she has gained confidence and is now performing all the routines wearing 12-centimeter heels," he added with relief.
Patelle recounted the mishap, mentioning how Futol underwent surgery to remove the bone fragment. Despite the injury, she participated actively, showcasing her resilient spirit, including dancing with crutches. "She has such willpower and remains motivated," Patelle remarked, indicating her commitment to succeed.
Frédéric Gilbert, the CEO of the Miss France organization, described the incident, highlighting the unusual nature of Futol's injury. "I still can't understand how it happened; it was inserted vertically rather than horizontally," he stated. Gilbert emphasized the concern for Futol's participation since the contestants, often wearing high heels, must navigate the pageant stage like it is a dance floor. There were fears about how practical this would be for someone with limited practice due to her injury.
The evening began with some excitement and minor snafus, including issues with the contestants’ sashes during the initial presentation. Notably, Miss Réunion and Miss Franche-Comté faced challenges with their banderoles flipping and detaching, respectively. Despite these hiccups, the contestants maintained their composure and delivered captivating performances as they danced on stage.
After much anticipation, the moment arrived to reveal the top candidates. The results indicated Futol did not make it to the Top 15 finalists, reflecting the tough competition this year. The top 15 included remarkable talents from various regions, but the absence of Miss Réunion continued the trend of non-qualification for the last three years.
Despite missing out on the quarter-finals, the night crowned Angélique Angarni-Filopon, Miss Martinique, as Miss France 2025. Angarni-Filopon, at over 30 years old, is the oldest contestant to secure the prestigious title. Overwhelmed with emotions, she shared her experience: "I feel like I'm dreaming. I can't believe it; it’s unbelievable! I did it for Martinique, and I am so proud and thankful!"
Her victory marks the first time Martinique has won the Miss France title, highlighting the diversity and representation within the competition. Moving forward, Angarni-Filopon will serve as France's representative, showcasing beauty and grace on the international stage.
The pageant held at the Futuroscope, known for its futuristic attractions, provided an extraordinary backdrop for such celebrations. The theme added elegance with dances echoing the vibrant 1960s, featuring notable jury chairpersons such as Sylvie Vartan, who helped add glamour to the event.
This year's election, broadcasted live on TF1, demonstrated the resilience and determination of the contestants, particularly for those like Futol who faced unexpected hurdles. Miss France remains one of the most anticipated beauty events, capturing national attention and reflecting the cultural enthusiasm surrounding beauty pageants.
Overall, the Miss France 2025 ceremony was filled with both inspiring moments and challenges, proving once again the show must go on, no matter what. Audiences can experience the spectacle again, as it will be re-aired on Antenne Réunion, reflecting on the night’s highs and lows.
