India’s gold hopes dashed: CAS dismisses Vinesh Phogat’s appeal

In a significant development from Paris, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has upheld the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris 2024 Olympics. The CAS has dismissed Phogat’s appeal, ensuring that her disqualification remains in effect. The detailed ruling will be publicly released on August 16, but the initial decision confirms that Phogat will not be awarded a joint-silver medal, and India’s medal tally for this year’s Summer Games will not increase beyond six.

Reaction from Indian Olympic Association

Dr. PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), has voiced her shock and disappointment over the CAS’s decision. The IOA expressed concerns regarding the Sole Arbitrator's dismissal of Phogat’s case against the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). "The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Dr. PT Usha has expressed her shock and disappointment at the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to dismiss wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application," ANI reported.

Details of the Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat faced disqualification from the 50kg women’s freestyle wrestling final due to a weight infringement—she was found to be 100 grams over the allowed limit on the morning of the bout. The final verdict on Phogat’s appeal was anticipated by 9:30 pm IST on August 16, as per CAS's announcement on Tuesday.

Impact on India's Olympic Performance

This ruling means that Phogat’s exclusion will not affect India’s current medal count from the Paris Games, leaving the tally at six. The decision marks a disappointing end to Phogat’s Olympic journey and raises questions about the handling of weight regulations in competitive sports.