The CAS Ad-Hoc Division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissed the appeal by Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, challenging her disqualification in the women's 50kg final at the Olympic Games in Paris. At the same time, dismissing the appeal against United World Wrestling and the International Olympic Committee, the Sole Arbitrator has left IOA President Dr PT Usha shocked and disappointed.
Precisely, the key paragraph of the August 14 order is a serious consequence on wrestler Vinesh's career and has wide ramifications for the sporting world in general: dismissing her plea to share the silver medal in the women's 50kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
What made the difference in this case was an issue of 100 grams, not only throwing a spanner in Vinesh's career but opening the Pandora's box as far as clarity and its interpretation of the rules go.
"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," said Usha in her statement.Usha said.
"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 prioritize athletes' well-being," the IOA statement said..
"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," it said.
"We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our stakeholders, athletes, and the public," said the IOA.
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