Vinesh Phogat disqualification: CAS publishes full verdict, terms it ’particularly difficult case’ | Mint Mediainsights.in

Almost a week after announcing the verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification plea from Paris Olympics 2024 as dismissed, the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on 19 August released a full report of the entire proceeding.

In the report, the CAS explained the full terms and conditions of the United World Wrestling (UWW) and International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Also, the CAS in its preliminary observations mentioned that this was particularly difficult case. But didn’t deny Phogat was above the 50 kg limit for her wrestling category when she weighed-in for the finals at the Paris Olympics.

“This is a particularly difficult case. The facts are not in dispute: the Applicant was above the 50 kg limit for her wrestling category when she weighed-in for the finals at the Paris Olympics. Had she competed, she would have been awarded either the gold or the silver medal. Her success in the competition had led to her being in that position,” CAS document observed.

Among other things, the CAS noted that Vinesh was not involved in any wrongdoing.

“The Sole Arbitrator observes that the Athlete entered the field of play and fought and won three rounds and reached the final of the 50 kg wrestling competition at the Paris Olympic Games before she failed the second weigh-in and was ineligible to compete in the final. There is no suggestion of any wrongdoing on her part,” the CAS document added.

What is Vinesh Phogat case?

On 7 August, India’s wrestler Vinesh Phogat, competing in the women’s wrestling 50kg freestyle category in the Paris Olympics, was disqualified just before her gold medal bout with USA’ Sarah Hildebrandt.

She was given the reason that she weighed 100 grams more than the permissible limit of UWW.

Later in the day, she appealed against her disqualification at the CAS and sought a silver medal.

On 8 August, she announced her retirement from wrestling after being upset with her disqualification.

With pressure mounting on IOA, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOA) Thomas Bach stated that they expect the verdict to be out before the conclusion of the Olympics, i.e. on 11 August.

However, the verdict was delayed. On 14 August, the CAS announced it verdict dismissing Phogat’s plea and stating that she will not be awarded any medal according to the rules.

Will Phogat take back her retirement decision?

With so much took place, it is still not sure if Phogat will take back her decision. She returned to Haryana’s village in Balali on 17 August.

When asked if she would consider to take back her decision, she told the media, as PTI quoted, “This incident is a deep wound, and it will take time to heal. However, the love I have received from my fellow countrymen and my village will help me heal. I will think about whether I want to continue wrestling, but for now, I cannot say what I will do. The courage I have received from people will guide me in the right direction.”