Vinesh Phogat appeals for a joint silver medal to CAS; verdict to come on August 8 morning: Reports

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has taken her fight for justice to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after her disqualification from the women's freestyle 50kg final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Vinesh was on the verge of making history by competing in the finals against USA’s Sarah Ann Hildebrandt on August 7.

However, during the mandatory weigh-in on the morning of the finals, Vinesh was found to be 100 grams over the 50kg weight limit. Thus, she was disqualified and has now appealed to CAS, demanding that she be awarded a joint silver medal.

The CAS has acknowledged her appeal and is set to provide a verdict by August 8 morning. If CAS rules in Vinesh’s favor, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will be obligated to award a joint silver medal to Vinesh alongside the current silver medalist.

The IOC’s earlier statement mentioned that Yusneylys Guzman of Cuba, who suffered a defeat against Vinesh Phogat in the semis, will be playing in the finals against Sarah.

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Understanding the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and how it can help Vinesh Phogat?

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is an international institution, independent of any sports organization, that resolves legal disputes in the field of sport through arbitration and mediation. Founded in 1984 and based in Lausanne, Switzerland, CAS plays a critical role in ensuring fair play and justice in sports.

CAS decisions are final and binding, with appeals possible only on very limited grounds to the Swiss Federal Tribunal, primarily concerning procedural or jurisdictional errors.

If CAS rules in Vinesh’s favor, it could lead to the awarding of a joint silver medal and may also require the International Olympic Committee (IOC) or United World Wrestling (UWW) to issue a public statement acknowledging the ruling and correcting any previous statements that may have harmed her reputation.