IOC President Thomas Bach Awaits CAS Verdict on Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification at Paris Olympics
Team Finance Saathi
10/Aug/2024

Key Points:
CAS to Decide on Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification: IOC President Thomas Bach confirms that the IOC will adhere to the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification.
Potential Silver Medal for Phogat: If the CAS rules in favor of Vinesh Phogat, the IOC may award her a silver medal, marking her first Olympic medal.
Strict Application of International Wrestling Rules: The International Federation's regulations led to Phogat's disqualification due to weight issues, preventing her from competing in the gold medal match.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Vinesh Phogat's disqualification at the Paris 2024 Olympics has drawn significant attention, with the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, confirming that the organization will closely follow the upcoming verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). This decision is of utmost importance, as it could potentially result in Phogat being awarded a silver medal for her efforts in the wrestling competition.
During a press conference, President Thomas Bach addressed the situation, stating, "Now it's in CAS, we will in the end follow the CAS decision." This statement reflects the IOC's commitment to adhering to the legal and regulatory processes that govern international sports, even in cases where the outcome may be contentious. Bach's comments highlight the significance of the CAS ruling, which will determine whether Phogat, who has had a stellar career in wrestling, will be able to secure her first-ever Olympic medal.
The disqualification incident occurred on August 7, during what was supposed to be Phogat's gold medal match against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA in the 50kg weight category. Unfortunately, Phogat was unable to compete because her weight exceeded the permissible limit, leading to her immediate disqualification. This incident not only ended her hopes of competing for the gold medal but also left her without any medal, a devastating blow for the seasoned wrestler who had high expectations for herself at the Paris Olympics.
Vinesh Phogat has since taken her case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking to have her disqualification overturned or, at the very least, to be awarded the silver medal she would have won had she been allowed to compete. The CAS decision is expected to be delivered by the end of the Paris Olympics, and it has become a focal point of interest not just in India but across the international sporting community.
When asked whether it would be possible for the IOC to award two silver medals in the same weight category, President Bach made it clear that this is not a standard practice. He explained, "If you ask generally of having two silver medals in one category then my answer is no." This response underlines the importance of following the established International Federation regulations that govern the distribution of medals in Olympic competitions.
Bach further elaborated on the complexities of such decisions, pointing out the challenges faced by federations when making determinations based on specific criteria, such as weight limits. He remarked, "There are the regulations of the International Federation that have to be followed, and the International Federation, United World Wrestling was taking this decision... Looking at the federation or everybody who has to make such a decision then when and where do you make the cut? Do you say with 100 grams we give it, but with 102 grams we don't give it anymore?"
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These comments shed light on the delicate balance that must be maintained between ensuring fairness and adhering to strict rules, especially in a sport as precise and regulated as wrestling. The International Federation, in this case, United World Wrestling, has the responsibility to apply and interpret its rules consistently, even in cases where the consequences are as significant as disqualification from an Olympic medal match.
As the world awaits the CAS verdict, the outcome will not only determine Phogat's Olympic fate but also set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future. If the decision is in her favor, it will be a historic moment for Vinesh Phogat, as she will finally secure an Olympic medal, a dream that has driven her throughout her illustrious career.
For India, a positive outcome would also bring immense pride, as it would add to the country’s growing list of achievements on the international sports stage. Vinesh Phogat, who has been a trailblazer for Indian women in wrestling, would see her perseverance and dedication rewarded in the most prestigious arena of all – the Olympic Games.
In the meantime, the situation serves as a reminder of the stringent nature of Olympic competition and the importance of every detail, from weight management to adherence to regulations. As the Paris 2024 Olympics draws to a close, the resolution of Vinesh Phogat’s case will be eagerly anticipated, not just by her fans in India but by the global sports community as well.
In conclusion, the IOC’s commitment to following the CAS decision underscores the importance of transparency and fair play in international sports. Whatever the outcome, Vinesh Phogat’s journey to this point is a testament to her resilience and passion for wrestling, qualities that will continue to inspire athletes around the world, regardless of the final decision.
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