International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has pledged to abide by the forthcoming ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogats disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Speaking at a recent press conference, Bach affirmed that if the CAS rules in favor of Phogat, the IOC will award her a silver medal.Now its in CAS, we will in the end follow the CAS decision, Bach stated, indicating the IOCs commitment to upholding the courts verdict.One silver medal per categoryAddressing questions about the possibility of awarding two silver medals in a single weight category, Bach was unequivocal. If you ask generally about having two silver medals in one category, then my answer is no, he clarified. Bach emphasized that the regulations set by the International Federation, United World Wrestling (UWW), must be strictly adhered to. He further explained the complexities of such decisions, citing the importance of precise rule enforcement.#WATCH | When asked about Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat and if two silver medals can be given in one weight category, President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach says, If you ask generally of having two silver medals in one category then my answer is no. There… pic.twitter.com/qE4hkAj90v— ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2024The International Federation has to apply and interpret their rules. This is their responsibility, Bach concluded.Vinesh Phogats disqualification and CAS appealVinesh Phogats promising journey at the Paris Olympics came to an abrupt end on August 7, when she was disqualified for exceeding the permissible weight limit in the 50kg category. As a result, she was barred from competing in her scheduled gold medal match against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA, thus losing the chance to secure a silver medal.Phogat has since appealed to CAS, seeking the silver medal she was denied. The courts decision, expected by the end of the Paris Olympics, could potentially secure Phogat her first Olympic medal.
