CAS Verdict on Vinesh Phogat's Paris Olympics Silver Medal Appeal Expected Tonight

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will deliver its verdict on Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for a joint silver medal at the Paris Olympics by 9:30 PM IST today. Phogat, disqualified for being 100 grams overweight, seeks the medal alongside Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. The decision holds major implications.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is set to announce 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 tonight. The CAS ad-hoc division, specially set up to handle disputes during the Games, extended the deadline for the decision, which will be crucial for Phogat, who was controversially disqualified for being 100 grams overweight before her final bout.

Vinesh Phogat, who had already secured a place in the final by defeating Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semifinals, was replaced by Lopez after her disqualification. The United World Wrestling (UWW) stripped her of a podium finish, citing the game's rules. In her appeal, Phogat has demanded a joint silver medal with Lopez, arguing that she was within the weight limit during her earlier bouts.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has supported Phogat’s appeal, with senior advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania representing her. IOA President PT Usha expressed the organization's unwavering support for Phogat, regardless of the outcome. She thanked the legal team for their efforts and reiterated the IOA's pride in Phogat's achievements.

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The CAS hearing, which lasted three hours, involved all relevant parties, including UWW, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the IOA. The decision, which is eagerly awaited, is expected to set a significant precedent in sports law.

Phogat, who announced her retirement following the disqualification, has expressed that she no longer has the strength to continue in the sport. The IOC President, Thomas Bach, commented on the situation, acknowledging the complexity of making concessions in such cases, where even small differences like 100 grams could have significant impacts.