‘Two silver medals in 1 category impossible’: IOC chief’s blunt take on Vinesh Phogat’s CAS appeal

New Delhi: International Olympic Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach on Friday spoke about Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic disqualification and her subsequent appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint-silver medal in women’s 50kg wrestling. The IOC chief said that he doesn’t see the possibility of winning joint silver medals in the event.

However, Bach said that he completely understands the situation of the ace Indian wrestler, who was unfortunately disqualified ahead of her gold medal contest. In a shocking turn of events, which also reduced India’s chances of getting a gold or a silver, Vinesh was disqualified hours ahead of her final in the women’s 50kg category for being 100 grams overweight.

What IOC chief said

Thomas Bach, speaking to the press in Paris, said the IOC would be binded by the decision of the CAS, but highlighted why awarding two silver medals after such a disqualification would set the wrong precedent.

“No. If you ask in such a general way, no. If you want me to comment about this individual, there are the regulations of the international federation have to be followed. The international federation, United World Wrestling in this case, was taking this decision and there I must say I have a certain understanding of the wrestler. There is a human touch. But, looking at the federation or everybody who has to make such a decision, then when and where do you cut?” Bach said.

“Do you say with 100 grams we give it, but with 102 grams we don’t give it anymore? What do you do with sports when you have differences with one-thousand of a second? Do you then also apply such deliberations?

“Now it’s in CAS, we will in the end follow the CAS decision. But again, the international federation, they have to apply and interpret their rules. So this is their responsibility.”

Vinesh left heartbroken after disqualification

The 29-year-old, who is considered as one of the best in the business, was left shattered and heartbroken and what followed was her decision to retire the following day. Vinesh, as it stands, will not only end up without a medal but finish last in her event for failing the weigh-in.

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 Vinesh Phogat was disqualified in a shocking turn of events, hours ahead of her final in the women’s 50kg category for being 100 grams overweight. IOC chief has shared his views about the same.  Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today