Barcelona Fined €500,000 for Financial Misreporting

Barcelona Fined €500,000 for Financial Misreporting

Barcelona’s financial woes continue as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed their appeal against a UEFA ruling that found the club guilty of misreporting income. The Spanish giants will now have to pay a fine of 500,000 euros (USD 542,000).

The case stems from Barcelona’s handling of a deal to sell off a percentage of its broadcast rights for the next 25 years. UEFA accused the club of “wilfully and consciously” misreporting the income from this deal in order to comply with European soccer’s financial rules.

In total, Barcelona secured deals worth 667.5 million euros (USD 724 million) in 2022 for selling off 25% of its future broadcast earnings from the Spanish league. However, UEFA said that Barcelona deliberately misreported one of these deals in its financial accounts and “overstated” its break-even results by 267 million euros (USD 290 million).

UEFA’s rules are intended to ensure the financial stability of clubs and only allow them to make certain losses over three years. The sale of “non-tangible assets” such as future broadcast earnings are not allowed to be included in these break-even calculations.

Barcelona has faced financial turmoil in recent years and reluctantly had to allow club great Lionel Messi to leave in 2021. The club’s financial situation has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a loss of revenue from ticket sales and other sources.

The CAS ruling is a major blow to Barcelona and could have further implications for the club’s financial future. The club is already facing a transfer ban for the summer of 2023 and could be forced to sell more players in order to balance the books.

Jannik Sinner's Doping Controversy: CAS Verdict Pending

Jannik Sinner’s Doping Controversy: CAS Verdict Pending

Jannik Sinner’s US Open triumph has been overshadowed by a doping controversy that has cast a shadow over his career. In March, it was revealed that the Italian had tested positive for an anabolic agent twice, but avoided a ban after an independent tribunal accepted his defense that the test results were affected by unintentional contamination.

Sinner’s physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, and athletic trainer, Umberto Ferrara, were blamed for the wrongful contamination and were fired in late August. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed to the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) in September, seeking a one to two-year ineligibility period for Sinner.

In a press release, the CAS stated that it could not specify a timeframe for the issuance of its decision, which will be final and binding. However, the parties have the right to appeal to the Swiss Federal Supreme Court within 30 days for limited reasons.

Naldi has recently spoken out about the incident, expressing his regret and hinting that he may reveal more details in the future. “I’m sorry like everyone else. I can’t say anything else, I just hope, sooner or later, I can also tell what happened to give a general picture,” he said.

Sinner has since hired Ulises Badio as his new physiotherapist and Marco Panichi as his new trainer. The Italian will be hoping that the CAS verdict goes in his favor, allowing him to continue his promising career without further disruption.

Jannik Sinner's Doping Case Heads to CAS After WADA Appeal

Jannik Sinner’s Doping Case Heads to CAS After WADA Appeal

Jannik Sinner’s doping controversy has taken a new turn as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the player’s acquittal. The appeal comes after Sinner tested positive for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban due to an independent tribunal accepting his defense of unintentional contamination.

WADA is seeking a period of ineligibility of between one and two years for Sinner, who has been a rising star in tennis, winning the Australian Open and US Open titles this year. The CAS has registered the appeal and will begin proceedings related to the doping issue.

The decision of the CAS Panel will be final and binding, with the exception of the right of the parties to appeal to the Swiss Federal Supreme Court within 30 days for limited reasons. If CAS rules in WADA’s favor, Sinner could face a suspension of several months.

Salvatore Civale, president of the Association of Sports Lawyers and UEFA and FIFA Legal Aid projects, believes that Sinner’s suspension could be “a couple of months of disqualification.” He suggests that an agreement between the parties could spread the suspension over a period with fewer sporting commitments.

Sinner’s doping controversy has cast a shadow over his impressive season. The Italian player will be hoping that the CAS verdict goes in his favor and allows him to continue his promising career without further interruptions.

Paul Pogba's Doping Ban Reduced to 18 Months by CAS

Paul Pogba’s Doping Ban Reduced to 18 Months by CAS

Paul Pogba’s Doping Ban Reduced to 18 Months

French midfielder Paul Pogba’s four-year ban for doping has been significantly reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The decision was announced on Friday by a CAS spokesperson, who confirmed that the suspension will take effect from September 11, 2023.

Pogba, now 31 years old, tested positive for testosterone in August 2023, leading to his initial four-year ban. However, the CAS has now ruled that the ban should be reduced, citing mitigating circumstances. The reasons for the decision will be released at a later date.

The news of Pogba’s reduced ban comes as a relief to the player and his supporters. The former Manchester United and Juventus star has been out of action since his positive test, and the 18-month suspension will allow him to return to competitive football sooner than expected.

Pogba’s ban has been a major talking point in the football world, with many questioning the severity of the initial four-year punishment. The CAS’s decision to reduce the ban suggests that they believe there were extenuating circumstances that contributed to Pogba’s positive test.

It remains to be seen how Pogba will perform upon his return to football. The midfielder has been a key player for both club and country throughout his career, and his absence has been felt by both Manchester United and the French national team.

Pogba’s reduced ban is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for redemption. The midfielder will now have the opportunity to prove that he is still one of the best players in the world and that he can overcome this setback.

Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification Raises Questions About UWW Rules and Indian Support

Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification Raises Questions About UWW Rules and Indian Support

In the aftermath of Vinesh Phogat’s controversial disqualification from the Paris Olympics, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling has raised questions about the fairness and validity of the United World Wrestling (UWW) rules.

CAS arbitrator Annabelle Bennett acknowledged the “cryptic” nature of the second-day weigh-in list that disqualified Vinesh and criticized the “infelicitous” language of the UWW rules. She also deemed the consequences of the failed weigh-in as “draconian,” suggesting a more equitable solution could have been to eliminate Vinesh from the round she was ineligible for, rather than punishing her for rounds she had already competed in.

However, Bennett noted that the validity or reasoning behind the UWW’s rules was not challenged before CAS. This raises concerns about the lack of scrutiny given to the rules that ultimately led to Vinesh’s disqualification.

The UWW’s rules have been criticized for being loosely drafted and inconsistent. At the Paris Olympics, the team leader guide cited outdated rules, highlighting the need for clearer and more transparent regulations.

The article also questions the delayed legal response from Indian authorities to Vinesh’s disqualification. Despite the urgency of the situation, it took over eight hours for the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to file a legal protest. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the support system for Indian athletes at major sporting events.

Furthermore, the official Paris 2024 website and UWW’s final results book offer conflicting information about Vinesh’s absence from the brackets ladder. This lack of clarity adds to the confusion surrounding her disqualification.

The CAS ruling and subsequent analysis have highlighted the need for a thorough review of the UWW’s rules and the support mechanisms for Indian athletes. It remains to be seen whether the IOA or the Ministry of Sports will pursue further legal recourse or take steps to address the concerns raised by Vinesh’s disqualification.

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification from Olympics

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification from Olympics

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has ruled against Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat in her appeal against her disqualification from the 50kg wrestling event at the Paris Olympics 2024. In a detailed 24-page verdict, CAS described the United World Wrestling’s (UWW) rules for punishing athletes who fail the second-day weigh-in as “draconian” but ultimately upheld the decision to disqualify Phogat.

Phogat had cleared the weigh-in process on the first day of her event but was found 100gm overweight on the second day, the day of her gold medal bout. As per UWW rules, wrestlers must clear the weigh-in on both days of the competition. While the UWW allows a 2kg weight tolerance in many international competitions, there is no such buffer at the Olympics.

In her appeal, Phogat argued that she should be awarded a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who lost to her in the semifinals but was promoted to the summit clash following her disqualification. However, CAS dismissed her appeal, stating that it was Phogat’s responsibility to ensure she was under the permissible limit during both days of the competition.

CAS acknowledged that the consequences of failing the second weigh-in were severe, but it emphasized that Phogat had voluntarily entered the 50kg weight category and was aware of the weight requirements. The court also noted that Phogat had previously competed under the UWW rules and had not raised any concerns about the weight requirements.

Phogat’s disqualification from the Olympics was a major disappointment for India, as she had become the first Indian woman wrestler to qualify for an Olympic final. Her stunning victory over legendary Japanese wrestler Yui Susaki had raised hopes of a medal, but her disqualification shattered those dreams.

Despite the CAS ruling, Phogat has received a hero’s welcome upon her return to India. Her performance at the Olympics has inspired many young wrestlers and demonstrated her resilience and determination.

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification for Overweight

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification for Overweight

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has released the detailed verdict of the sole arbitrator, Annabelle Bennett, who dismissed Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for a silver medal after her disqualification for being overweight in the weigh-in before the final at the Paris Olympics.

Bennett acknowledged the persuasiveness of the Indian side’s arguments but emphasized that the clear-cut rules left no room for leeway. The rules state that wrestlers must remain eligible throughout the competition, from entry to the finals. Failure to do so results in elimination without ranking.

Vinesh, who won three bouts to reach the final, was marginally overweight at the mandatory second weigh-in the next morning before the gold medal bout. She argued that the excess weight was due to factors such as the menstrual cycle, water retention, and insufficient time to reduce her weight due to travel.

However, Bennett noted that the rules are clear and do not allow for any tolerance. Athletes are responsible for ensuring they remain below the weight limit.

Vinesh’s appeal for a shared silver medal was also dismissed as it was not within the arbitrator’s power. The UWW rules state that once a wrestler becomes ineligible during the competition, the consequences of elimination without ranking apply.

Bennett expressed sympathy for Vinesh’s situation, calling the disqualification rule “draconian.” She suggested that a fairer solution would be to eliminate the wrestler from the round for which they were found ineligible, rather than the entire competition.

The detailed verdict provides insights into the UWW’s weigh-in rules and the consequences of failing to meet the weight limit. It highlights the importance of athletes adhering to the regulations and the challenges they may face in maintaining their weight during competitions.

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification for Overweight

CAS Upholds Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification for Overweight

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has upheld its decision to disqualify Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics final due to being overweight. In a detailed ruling, the CAS stated that athletes are solely responsible for ensuring they remain below the weight limit, with no exceptions allowed.

Phogat’s disqualification stemmed from being 100 grams overweight on the morning of the women’s 50kg freestyle final. She had appealed the decision, arguing that the excess weight was minimal and could be attributed to factors such as water retention. However, the CAS rejected her appeal, citing the clear rules regarding weight limits.

“The Rules are clear as to the weight limit and are the same for all participants. There is no tolerance provided for – it is an upper limit. It does not even allow for the weight of the singlet. It is clearly up to an athlete to ensure that they remain below that limit,” the CAS stated.

Phogat’s disqualification sparked controversy, with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressing disappointment. However, the CAS emphasized that the rules are impartial and must be adhered to by all athletes.

In her appeal, Phogat had requested a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who lost to her in the semifinals but was promoted to the final after Phogat’s disqualification. The gold medal was won by American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt.

The CAS’s decision serves as a reminder to athletes of the importance of adhering to weight limits and the consequences of exceeding them. It also highlights the impartial nature of the CAS in upholding the rules of sports.

Vinesh Phogat's Emotional Return Sparks Outpouring of Support

Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Return Sparks Outpouring of Support

Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat’s return to India after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed her appeal for a joint silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked a wave of empathy and support on social media.

Phogat, 29, was disqualified from the women’s 53kg freestyle final for missing the prescribed weight limit by 100 grams. The news came to light the night before her final match, prompting her to undergo extreme weight-cutting measures for five hours.

According to her coach, Woller Akos, Phogat “did everything possible” to make the cut, including drawing blood, limiting her food and water intake, and even cutting her hair.

Despite her efforts, Phogat was unable to shed the excess weight and was disqualified. The decision has been met with widespread criticism, with many calling it “inhumane.”

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has slammed the regulations as “inhumane” and has said it is “exploring further legal options.”

Phogat’s emotional breakdown at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi has sparked a wave of empathy and support on social media. Thousands have taken to Twitter to express solidarity with the wrestler, hailing her as a “legend” and a symbol of resilience.

“You are and always will be a legend,” posted one Twitter user. Another person added, “Welcome back, Vinesh Phogat champ.” A third commented, “A smile emerges amidst the tears and struggle. Vinesh Phogat returns home.”

Phogat was welcomed by medal-winning athletes, including Rio Games medallist Sakshi Malik and Tokyo Olympics medallist Bajrang Punia. Her family, well-wishers, and political leaders were also present at the airport for her welcome party.

Phogat’s disqualification has raised questions about the weight-cutting practices in wrestling. Many experts have called for changes to the regulations to prevent wrestlers from resorting to extreme measures to make weight.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Journey: Heartbreak, Resilience, and Unwavering Spirit

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Journey: Heartbreak, Resilience, and Unwavering Spirit

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a heartbreaking disqualification and subsequent appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Despite the setbacks, Phogat’s resilience and determination have shone through, earning her the admiration and support of the nation.

Upon her arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, Phogat was greeted by a throng of cheering fans and a thick security cover. Overcome with emotion, she broke down in tears, consoled by teammates Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik.

Phogat’s disqualification stemmed from being found 100 grams overweight on the day of her historic gold medal bout in the women’s 50kg wrestling. Despite her impressive victories in the previous rounds, including a triumph over four-time world champion Yui Susaki of Japan, her podium finish was nullified.

Undeterred, Phogat and her team appealed to CAS for a joint silver medal. However, after several deferrals, CAS ultimately ruled against her plea. In an emotional social media post, Phogat expressed her disappointment and the hardships she had faced throughout her journey.

Despite the setback, Phogat has hinted at a possible return to wrestling. “Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032,” she wrote. “I can’t predict what the future holds for me, but I am sure that I will continue to fight always for what I believe in.”

Phogat’s unwavering spirit and the outpouring of support she has received serve as a testament to her indomitable character. While her Olympic dream may have been cut short, her legacy as a champion and an inspiration to countless young athletes remains intact.

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