Vinesh Phogat’s bid for an Olympic medal in Paris 2024 faces continued uncertainty due to delays in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) verdict. Originally disqualified from the women’s 50kg wrestling final for being just 100 grams overweight, Phogat appealed to CAS, arguing that she was within the permissible weight limit when she qualified for the final. Consequently, she believes she deserves a shared silver medal.
The decision on Phogat’s case, initially expected before the end of the Paris Olympics, has faced multiple postponements. The latest extension moves the verdict deadline to August 16, 2024, leaving Phogat and her supporters in suspense.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) reported on August 13 that the CAS ad hoc division president, Hon. Dr Annabelle Bennett, has been granted an extension until 6:00 pm (Paris time) on Friday, August 16, 2024. The delay suggests that CAS is giving considerable attention to Phogat’s case.
Phogat’s legal team, led by senior counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, remains optimistic despite the extended deliberation. Singhania expressed that the repeated extensions may indicate a thorough review by the arbitrator, which could be favorable for Phogat.
“We all believe. Yes, the ad-hoc panel of the CAS has a time limit of 24 hours. The fact that they have extended the verdict deadline more than once means they are thinking about this matter seriously. If the Arbitrator is considering it deeply, it’s good for us,” Singhania told India Today.
Singhania highlighted that while the success rate at CAS is generally low, the ongoing review offers hope for a landmark decision. “I have fought many cases at the CAS in the past. The success rate at CAS is very low. In this matter, we are asking for a landmark decision from the arbitrator. It’s a little difficult, but let’s hope something big happens. Let’s all pray for Vinesh. Even if she doesn’t get it, she is a champion,” Singhania added.
The complexity of Olympic competition often means that even minor infractions can have significant consequences. Phogat’s situation underscores the high stakes and intricate nature of the sport, where every detail can impact an athlete’s career and legacy.
Phogat’s legal team also includes French lawyers Joelle Monlouis, Estelle Ivanova, Habbine Estelle Kim, and Charles Amson. Appointed by the Paris Bar and offering their services pro bono, these lawyers have been assisting the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) with the application process and legal strategy.
The ongoing case reflects the global scale and the intricate legal battles that athletes can face in pursuit of their Olympic dreams. Phogat’s supporters remain hopeful that a favorable decision will be reached soon, bringing clarity to her Olympic aspirations.