CAS Delays Verdict On Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal Until August 16

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has further postponed its decision on Vinesh Phogat’s appeal, now expected on August 16 at 9:30 PM IST. This marks the third extension for the verdict in the case, which concerns Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics.

Phogat’s appeal, challenging her disqualification from the women’s 50kg category and seeking a joint silver medal, has faced repeated delays.

On August 13, CAS extended the decision deadline following a request from Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association, who are contesting the decisions of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and United World Wrestling.

What is Article 18?

CAS cited Article 18 of its Arbitration Rules for the Olympic Games, which allows for extensions in exceptional cases. The rules stipulate that decisions should typically be made within 24 hours of the hearing or evidentiary proceedings, though extensions can be granted if necessary.

Initially, Phogat sought to nullify the IOC’s disqualification and requested a reweighing, but did not request urgent interim measures. As the final was set for Thursday evening, the CAS bench was unable to address the matter in time.

The delay has sparked scrutiny, with IOA chief PT Usha defending Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala against social media criticism related to Vinesh’s missed weight. The fairness of two-day weigh-ins has been questioned, with wrestling great Jordan Burroughs advocating for rule changes, including a 1kg weight allowance and awarding medals to both semi-finalists.

Why was Vinesh Phogat disqualified?

Phogat was disqualified for being 100 grams over the limit on the second day of the weigh-in, despite clearing the initial weigh-in and winning three matches, including a notable victory over Japan’s Yui Susaki.

The IOC’s decision allowed Cuba’s Guzman Uzneylys, who lost to Phogat in the semi-final, to compete in the gold medal match.

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