Blog Details

As the Paris Olympics 2024 draws nearer, a significant controversy surrounds Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the women’s 50kg category. Vinesh, who was disqualified hours before her final match for being 100 grams overweight, has requested a joint-silver medal through an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, International Olympic Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach has expressed his reservations about this request.

Thomas Bach’s Stance

On August 7, 2024, Thomas Bach addressed the controversy, stating that he does not support the idea of awarding two silver medals in the event. He acknowledged the human aspect of Vinesh Phogat's situation but emphasized that the integrity of the competition and adherence to regulations must be maintained.

Bach highlighted the challenges of setting precedents in such cases: "No. If you ask in such a general way, no. If you want me to comment about this individual, there are the regulations of the international federation that have to be followed. The international federation, United World Wrestling in this case, was taking this decision and there I must say I have a certain understanding of the wrestler. There is a human touch. But, looking at the federation or everybody who has to make such a decision, then when and where do you cut?"

He questioned the implications of making exceptions: “Do you say with 100 grams we give it, but with 102 grams we don’t give it anymore? What do you do with sports when you have differences with one-thousand of a second? Do you then also apply such deliberations?"

Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal

Vinesh Phogat's appeal to overturn her disqualification and secure a joint-silver medal was registered with CAS on August 9, 2024. Initially, Phogat sought to have another weigh-in to compete in the final, but the CAS could not act in time due to the limited window before the final. The final bout proceeded between Sarah Hilderbrandt and Yusnelys Guzman, with Guzman having lost to Phogat in the semi-finals.

Phogat's latest request for a joint-silver medal is currently under consideration by CAS. This appeal reflects the frustration and disappointment faced by the athlete, who was left heartbroken after being disqualified.

Conclusion

The situation continues to evolve as CAS deliberates Vinesh Phogat's appeal. Thomas Bach and the IOC have stressed adherence to established rules, while acknowledging the personal and competitive stakes involved. The final decision by CAS will be awaited with great anticipation.

Disclaimer

This blog is based on information provided by India Today. Bimacure does not hold any rights to this content. For the original article, please visit India Today. All rights to the original content are held by India Today.

For further assistance, visit www.bimacure.com