The ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is set to deliver its verdict today on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for a joint silver medal in the women’s 50kg wrestling event at the Paris Olympics 2024. The CAS held a three-hour hearing on Friday to deliberate on Phogat’s disqualification from the Olympics.
The decision, initially postponed, will be announced today after the CAS ad-hoc division’s president extended the timeline for the panel’s decision. Phogat, who participated in the proceedings virtually, was disqualified after being found 100 grams over the weight limit during the weigh-in for her gold medal match on August 7. Consequently, the United World Wrestling (UWW) revoked her podium finish in accordance with game rules.
Representing Phogat were senior advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, who argued that the weight gain was a natural consequence of her body’s recovery process, not a form of fraud or rule violation.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has expressed strong support for Phogat, remaining optimistic about a favorable outcome. In a statement, the IOA highlighted Phogat’s exceptional achievements and their unwavering backing of the wrestler.
Phogat’s case has sparked considerable interest in the sports community, emphasizing the fine balance between stringent adherence to competition rules and the natural physiological aspects affecting athletes. The imminent decision is being closely watched, both in India and globally, as it carries implications for how similar cases might be handled in the future.
For further updates, stay tuned as we cover the final verdict expected to be a pivotal moment in Vinesh Phogat’s illustrious wrestling career.
