Court of Arbitration to Hear Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal Against Olympic Disqualification
Vinesh Phogat CAS Hearing: The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has agreed to hear Vinesh Phogat’s appeal concerning her disqualification from the Olympic wrestling event. The hearing is set for 10 a.m. local time in Paris today.
Disqualification Details
Phogat, who reached the final in the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling category, was disqualified after being 100 grams over the weight limit at the weigh-in. Despite this, she has appealed to CAS, which handles sports disputes.
Legal Representation and Timing
At 3 p.m. Paris time, CAS approved Phogat’s appeal and asked her to secure legal representation for the hearing later today. The Indian government has requested that renowned lawyer Harish Salve represent Phogat. Salve’s appointment needs to be confirmed by 6 p.m. Paris time, and CAS must be notified before the hearing begins.
Extension Granted for Lawyer Appointment
The Indian team requested more time to finalize their lawyer, and CAS granted an extension until 9:30 p.m. IST on Thursday. Harish Salve, known for his involvement in high-profile cases including work with the BCCI, is expected to represent the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) virtually. He has been updated on the details of the case.
Phogat’s Appeals
Phogat has made two appeals to CAS: one to allow her to compete in the final and another for a joint silver medal. Her request to compete in the final was denied before the event, but the appeal for a joint silver medal is still being considered.
Also read: India's Medal Standing at Paris 2024: Currently 64th with Five Medals
Performance Highlights
Phogat’s Olympic run was impressive. She defeated Yui Susaki of Japan, the defending champion with an unbeaten record of 82-0, in the first round. She continued her strong performance through the quarter-finals and semi-finals, where she beat Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who later won silver. Guzman lost to Sarah Hilderbrandt of the United States in the final on Wednesday.