The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has voiced its deep dissatisfaction with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after the body dismissed wrestler Vinesh Phogat's plea for a silver medal in the women's 50kg category at the upcoming Paris Olympics.
The CAS decision made public on Wednesday, has dealt a significant blow to Phogat's Olympic aspirations, leaving the IOA considering further legal avenues.
Shocked and disappointed
IOA President PT Usha expressed her "shock and disappointment" at the CAS ruling, which upheld the decision in favour of United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The IOA's official statement condemned the CAS verdict, stressing that the decision had far-reaching implications not just for Phogat, but for the entire sporting community.
"The operative part of the August 14 decision, which dismisses Vinesh's application to be awarded a shared silver medal in the women's 50kg category at the Paris Olympic Games 2024, has significant implications for her in particular and the sporting community at large," the IOA said in its statement.
Disqualification for 100 grams
The controversy stems from Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the final due to being overweight by a mere 100 grams, a margin that led to Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had lost to Phogat in the semi-finals, being promoted to the final. The gold was eventually claimed by American wrestler Sarah Ann Hildebrandt.
Phogat had argued that she should be awarded a joint silver medal with Lopez, given the marginal nature of the infraction. The IOA's statement highlighted the severity of the penalty for such a minor weight discrepancy, questioning the fairness and rigidity of the rules applied.
“The marginal discrepancy of 100 grams and the resultant consequences has a profound impact, not only on Vinesh's career but also raises serious questions about ambiguous rules and their interpretation,” the IOA said.
IOA questions “inhumane” regulations
The IOA's statement also took aim at what it described as "inhumane regulations" that fail to consider the extreme physiological and psychological stresses athletes, particularly female athletes, endure during competitions.
"The matter involving Vinesh highlights the stringent and, arguably, inhumane regulations that fail to account for the physiological and psychological stresses athletes undergo. It is a stark reminder of the need for more equitable and reasonable standards that prioritize athletes' well-being," the statement read.
Exploring legal avenues
The IOA has pledged to continue supporting Vinesh Phogat and is actively exploring further legal options in light of the CAS decision. "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 are upheld at all times."
Vinesh Phogat, who was making her third Olympic appearance, endured a gruelling process to stay within the weight limit, including cutting her hair, going without food and water, and spending an entire night exercising. Despite her efforts, the 100-gram discrepancy led to her disqualification and subsequent legal battle.
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