New Delhi: Renowned wrestling coach Mahavir Phogat reacted to Vinesh Phogat’s case for a silver medal at the Paris Olympics following disqualification from the prestigious event. On Wednesday, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected the Indian wrestler’s appeal against her disqualification from women’s 50kg freestyle event.
Mahavir Phogat, who is the uncle of Vinesh, revealed about how the village is eager to welcome the 29-year-old wrestler despite failing to confirm a medal at the quadrennial showpiece event.
“While we are heart-broken at the decision, nothing can take away what she has done for Indian wrestling and will be remembered for her fighting spirit,” Mahavir Phogat was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
“For us, she will always be a champion and we will accord a welcome for her at Balali village on August 17, when she returns home,” he added.
In a one-line order passed the ad-hoc division of the CAS, Vinesh’s appeal to be awarded joint silver medal with Cuba’s Yusnelylys Guzman was dismissed. The verdict read:
‘The application filed by Vinesh Phogat on 7th August, 2024 is dismissed.’
IOA disappointed with CAS’ verdict
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha was shocked and disappointed with the CAS outcome on Vinesh Phogat’s case. The national sporting organisation called the rules of United World Wrestling as ‘ambiguous’.
“The operative part of the August 14 decision, which dismisses Vinesh’s application to be awarded a shared silver medal women’s 50 kg category at the Paris Olympic Games 2024, has significant implications for her in particular and the sporting community at large,” the IOA statement read.
“The marginal discrepancy of a 100 grams and the resultant consequences has profound impact, not only in terms of Vinesh’s career but also raises serious questions about ambiguous rules and their interpretation,” the statement read further.
Vinesh is reportedly said to be overweight by 100 grams on the morning of her gold medal match. She was disqualified from the event with UWW rules clearly mentions that if a wrestler is found disqualified then he/she goes to the last position and isn’t considered for medal. However, the IOA said that it will explore other legal options to continue the fight for Vinesh.
“In light of the order of the CAS, 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 and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times.” the IOA release mentioned.
Renowned wrestling coach Mahavir Phogat reacted to Vinesh Phogat’s case for a silver medal at the Paris Olympics following disqualification from the prestigious event. Other Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
