Paris Olympics 2024: ‘Decision Before The End Of The Games’ CAS Issues Fresh Statement On Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal

New Delhi: The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has agreed to review Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for a silver medal in the women’s 50kg wrestling category at the Paris Olympics. A decision is expected before the Games conclude.

Phogat, who was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit just before the final round, lost her chance to compete for gold. She has since appealed the decision with the CAS, seeking to be awarded a joint silver medal in her weight class.

“An application was filed at the CAS Ad hoc Division at 16:45 CEST on 7 August 2024 by Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat (the Applicant) in relation to the decision taken by United World Wrestling (UWW) to replace her, because of her failed second weigh-in, before the gold medal match of the Women’s Freestyle 50kg competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 that was due to commence at 18:15 CEST the same day (the Challenged Decision),” the CAS statement read.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is supporting Vinesh Phogat in her appeal, with renowned senior counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania representing her before the CAS ad-hoc division. Salve will participate in the hearing online.

The appeal has been assigned to a sole arbitrator, who is anticipated to deliver a decision before the conclusion of the Paris Olympics.

“The Applicant initially sought a decision from the CAS Ad hoc Division annulling the Challenged Decision and ordering another weigh-in before the final match as well as a declaration that she be declared eligible and qualified to participate in the final.

“However, she did not request urgent interim measures. The CAS Ad hoc Division procedure is fast, but it was not possible for a decision on the merits to be issued within an hour, bearing in mind that the Respondent UWW would have had to be heard first. The procedure is, however, ongoing and the Applicant has confirmed that she seeks the annulment of the Challenged Decision and that she requests to be awarded a (shared) silver medal.”

“The matter has been referred to the Hon. Dr Annabelle Bennett AC SC (AUS), sitting as a Sole Arbitrator, who will hold a hearing with the parties today. The Sole Arbitrator’s decision is expected to be issued before the end of the Olympic Games,” the statement concluded.

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg competition for being 100 grams over the weight limit, resulting in her placement at the bottom of the rankings according to United World Wrestling rules.

Despite her strenuous efforts, including a sleepless night working with her coach, support staff, and the Indian contingent’s chief medical officer to shed the excess weight gained from replenishing vital fluids lost during her bouts, she remained just 100 grams over the limit.