Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic fate hangs in the balance as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) prepares to issue a verdict on her disqualification from the Paris Games. The Indian wrestler was disqualified after failing to make weight for her 50kg final bout, and she has appealed for a shared silver medal.
The CAS hearing took place on Friday, and the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett, was expected to issue a decision by the end of the Games. However, she has sought more time, and the verdict is now expected on Tuesday. The reasoned order will be issued at a later date.
Vinesh has taken the United World Wrestling (UWW) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) to court, arguing that the results of her first three bouts should not have been wiped out. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is also part of the case as an interested party.
In a statement issued on Sunday, IOA president PT Usha defended Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the IOA’s Chief Medical Officer, who has been criticized for his role in the events leading up to Vinesh’s disqualification. Usha clarified that the responsibility for weight management lies with the athletes and their coaches, not the IOA or Dr. Pardiwala.
Vinesh’s team has argued that she was delayed in the weight cut process due to the distance between the wrestling venue and the Athletes’ Village. They have also pointed out that the amount of weight she needed to lose was negligible.
The IOC and UWW have argued that if the line is pushed for 100 grams, it could lead to a slippery slope. However, some coaches have expressed concern about women having to shed weight twice in such events and have called for relaxation in the rules.
The CAS verdict will have a significant impact on Vinesh’s career. If she is reinstated, she will have a chance to win an Olympic medal. However, if her disqualification is upheld, it will be a major setback for the Indian wrestler.
