CAS To Deliver Verdict On Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Silver Medal Tonight

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is set to deliver its verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's appeal for a joint silver medal in the women's 50kg wrestling category at the Paris Olympics 2024 by 9:30 pm IST on Saturday, August 10.

The CAS ad-hoc division, established for resolving disputes during the Games, accepted Vinesh's appeal after she was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight on the morning of her final against the eventual gold winner, Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the USA.

Photo Credit: PTI

Despite the United World Wrestling (UWW) stripping Vinesh of her podium finish according to the game rules, Vinesh has demanded that she be awarded a joint silver with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, whom she defeated in the semifinals on Tuesday.

Vinesh's legal team, led by senior advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, argued that she was within the prescribed weight limit during her previous bouts.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has expressed hope for a favorable resolution, stating, "IOA can only state that the Sole Arbitrator Dr. Annabelle Bennett AC SC (Australia) heard all parties... over three hours."

IOA President PT Usha emphasised the organisation's unwavering support for Vinesh, regardless of the outcome, saying, "We are proud of her countless achievements on the wrestling mat throughout her stellar career."

The CAS has extended the deadline for the decision until August 10, 2024, at 6:00 pm Paris time.

IOC President Thomas Bach commented on the situation, acknowledging his "certain understanding" of Vinesh's case but raising concerns about where to draw the line when allowing such concessions: "Do you say with 100gms, we give it but with 102(gms), we don't give it anymore?"

Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling after challenging her disqualification, citing that she does not have the strength to continue.