Vinesh Phogat's Appeal Hearing Concludes, IOA Awaits Positive Outcome

The appeal hearing of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat against her disqualification from the Olympic finals has concluded at the ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) remains optimistic about a favourable outcome.

Details of the Appeal

The CAS ad-hoc division, established specifically for dispute resolution during the Games, accepted Vinesh's appeal. She was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight on the morning of her final against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the USA, who eventually won gold. In her appeal, Vinesh requested a joint silver with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had lost to her in the semifinals.

Representation and Hearing

Vinesh was represented by senior advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania. The IOA stated, "Since the matter is sub-judice, IOA can only state that the Sole Arbitrator Dr. Annabelle Bennett AC SC Australia heard all parties applicant Vinesh Phogat, the respondents United World Wrestling and the International Olympic Committee as well as IOA as an interested party over three hours."

All involved parties had the chance to submit detailed legal arguments before the hearing and present oral arguments during it. The Sole Arbitrator indicated that an operative part of the order might be expected soon, followed by a detailed order with reasons.

Support from IOA

PT Usha, head of IOA, expressed gratitude towards Salve, Singhania, and the Krida Legal team for their assistance. She affirmed IOA's unwavering support for Vinesh regardless of the outcome. "We are proud of her countless achievements on the wrestling mat throughout her stellar career," Usha said.

Earlier, it was mentioned that a decision could be expected before the end of the Games on Sunday. Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling after challenging her disqualification, citing a lack of strength to continue.

IOC President's Reaction

International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach commented on Friday about Vinesh's situation. He expressed understanding but questioned where to draw the line in such cases. "Looking at the federation or anybody to take such a decision, when and where do you make the cut? Do you say with 100gms, we give it but with 102gms, we don't give it anymore?" he asked.

Bach also pondered how similar deliberations would apply in sports with minute differences like track events. "What do you do then in sports where you have differences of one-thousandths of a second in track events? Do you also then apply such deliberations?" he added.

The hearing concluded with all parties presenting their cases thoroughly. The sporting community now awaits the decision from CAS regarding Vinesh Phogat's appeal.