India’s Olympic campaign in Paris concluded with six medals, but the nation eagerly awaits a potential seventh that could match their Tokyo Games record. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on behalf of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the gold-medal bout in the women’s 50kg freestyle event due to being 100 grams overweight.
Vinesh’s team presented their case to CAS, arguing that her weight gain was due to the distance between the competition venue and the Athletes Village, as well as the tight schedule between bouts. They emphasized that the excess weight did not provide her with any competitive advantage and was a result of natural recovery processes.
Vinesh’s legal team also invoked the principle of proportionality, arguing that the consequences of her disqualification were disproportionate to the minor weight excess. They highlighted her hard work and the silver medal she earned through her performance.
Despite criticism of the IOA medical team, the association has expressed unwavering support for Vinesh. IOA President PT Usha stated that the association considers it their duty to back her.
The CAS is expected to announce its verdict on Vinesh’s plea on August 13. If successful, India could match their best-ever Olympic medal tally of seven.
