Paris: The ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deliberation period on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification from the women’s 50kg freestyle final at the Olympic Games. The final decision will now be announced on August 13.
Vinesh, 29, was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight during the weigh-in on Wednesday. The decision on her appeal was initially expected to be delivered this evening. However, following confusion, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) clarified that the CAS ruling will be made on August 13.
The IOA stated, “The ad-hoc division of CAS has extended the time for Sole Arbitrator Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett to issue a decision until 6:00 p.m. on August 13, 2024.” The previous reference to August 11 was regarding the deadline for submitting additional documents.
Vinesh Phogat, represented by senior advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, has requested a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who was promoted to the final after Phogat’s disqualification. American Sarah Hildebrandt secured the gold by defeating Lopez in the final match.
Following her disqualification, a heartbroken Vinesh announced her retirement on social media. Both the United World Wrestling and IOC President Thomas Bach have indicated that they are not inclined to make exceptions for her case, although future rule reforms may be considered.
India concluded the Games with six medals—one silver and five bronze—two of which were won by pistol shooter Manu Bhaker. Neeraj Chopra, the defending champion in men’s javelin throw, secured the lone silver for the country.
