PORTRAIT OF MISS – The election of Miss France 2025 will be held on December 14 at Futuroscope, in Poitiers. Marie Castel will represent her region, Brittany. The Miss has so far answered questions from Paris Match.
Elected on September 27 in Ploemeur (Morbihan), Marie Castel is 20 years old and wears the sash of Miss Brittany 2024. She is preparing today for the election of Miss France 2025 which will be held on December 14 at Futuroscope, in Poitiers .
Introduce yourself in a few words. Where were you born and where did you grow up?
The rest after this ad
I was born in Brest and grew up in Pleyber-Christ, surrounded by my family and Breton nature. It’s a small town in Finistère that I really like.
The rest after this ad
What were you doing before participating in the competition?
Before participating in the competition, I was in the middle of my studies in Marketing Techniques and I started my work-study program in marketing.
The rest after this ad
The rest after this ad
A strong personal story to tell us?
A highlight of my life was when my family discovered that I was going to participate in Miss Finistère. I had not warned them, but they were very proud and moved.
When and why did you decide to submit your candidacy for the regional election?
I decided to send my application under the advice of my friends, it was a little girl's dream and a real challenge for the shy young girl that I was. I managed to be elected 2nd runner-up to Miss Finistère, then I tried again the following year and I managed to become Miss Finistère, thanks to better physical and mental preparation.
Did you have any doubts before starting out? If yes, which ones?
Yes, I had doubts. I wondered if I was really ready and if I was going to live up to it, if I was going to make my family proud…
Does everyone around you support you?
Those around me support me enormously, and that is what constitutes my greatest strength today. Some of my loved ones had doubts at first, but they quickly realized that it was for me.
What do you say to those who consider the competition outdated or even misogynistic?
I think the competition has evolved a lot. It allows women to express themselves and defend causes that are important to them.
What do you think of the evolution of the Miss France competition? Did opening the competition to more varied profiles influence your desire to present yourself?
I find that the evolution of the competition is very positive, it shows that everyone has their place!
What particular cause do you want to defend?
I want to defend the importance of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle for adolescents, as I already do with the association “La Vie en Rose BZH”.
How do you handle the sudden notoriety that could fall on you on December 14?
I am aware that this notoriety requires responsibilities, I am also prepared to receive negative opinions about my appearance and my person because we cannot please everyone.
Does seeing Eve Gilles face harassment on social media worry you?
Yes, that worries me. Social media is cruel but I think it's important to educate people about respect and kindness online.
A childhood/youth memory strongly linked to Miss France?
Every year with my family it's the meeting of the year!
Which Miss France made an impression on you and why?
The Miss France who left the biggest impression on me is obviously Iris Mittenaere. Her journey inspired me to believe in my dreams.
A mentor or someone who has influenced you throughout your life?
I aspire to become like my grandmother Maï, she is the person I admire the most, her dedication and kindness taught me the importance of empathy and support for others.
The trait of your character that you like to highlight?
I like to highlight my optimism and my joy of life.
A hidden talent?
I discovered a passion for public speaking. At the start, I was so shy and am very proud of myself!
A book?
« It Ends with Us » de Colleen Hoover.
A song?
« Happy » de Pharrell Williams.
A film or a series?
I love the cartoon “Coco” because it highlights family values and inspires people to pursue their dreams. My favorite series is “Lupin”, because it is full of adventure and mysteries. I love Omar Sy and the homage to French literature.
Your favorite hobby?
Play sports.
A guilty pleasure?
I love sushi, I could eat it every day.
A fetish object?
A heart-shaped ring that my boyfriend gave me, I never take it off, it's my lucky charm.
Are you willing to take heart?
No, I have had a boyfriend for over a year who has supported me from the start!
Your regional pride?
My regional pride is of course Breton gastronomy, and especially salted butter, I don't understand why it is not available throughout the world.