 "IOA 'disappointed' after Vinesh Phogat's appeal dismissed by CAS' ad-hoc panel")
Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification from the women’s 50kg wrestling event at the Paris Olympics has been rejected by the ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed the development on Wednesday (August 14) with a statement.
Vinesh was disqualified for being 100 grammes over the weight limit at the time of her weigh-in on the morning of the final last week.
In a statement, IOA President PT Usha expressed “shock and disappointment at the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at the CAS to dismiss wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application against the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).”
“The operative part of the August 14 decision, which dismisses Vinesh’s application to be awarded a shared silver medal in women’s 50 kg category at the Paris Olympic Games has significant implications for her in particular and the sporting community at large,” the IOA stated.
“The marginal discrepancy of a 100 grams and the resultant consequences has profound impact, not only in terms of Vinesh’s career but also raises serious questions about ambiguous rules and their interpretation.”
“The IOA firmly believes that the total disqualification of an athlete for such a weight infraction on the second of two days warrants a deeper examination. Our legal representatives had duly brought this out in their submissions before the Sole Arbitrator.”
“The matter involving Vinesh highlights the stringent and, arguably, inhumane regulations that fail to account for the physiological and psychological stresses athletes, particularly female athletes, undergo. It is a stark reminder of the need for more equitable and reasonable standards that prioritise athletes’ well-being.”
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More Shorts“In light of the order of the CAS, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Ms. Phogat and is exploring further legal options. The IOA is committed to ensuring that Vinesh’s case is heard. It will continue to advocate justice and fairness in sports, ensuring that the rights and dignity of athletes and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times.”
“We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our stakeholders, athletes, and the public.”
The dismissal of the appeal means India’s tally from the Paris Olympics will be of six medals which includes one silver and five bronze.
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