New Delhi: There was heartbreak for Vinesh Phogat and millions of Indians who were expecting a ‘miracle’ from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Having changed its deadline thrice over its verdict on the Indian wrestler’s appeal for a shared silver in Women’s 50 kg Freestyle event of the Paris Olympics, the CAS finally delivered its decision on Wednesday evening.
It was a one-line order which denied a medal to Vinesh, who stormed into the gold-medal match but was disqualified on August 7 after being found to be 100 grams above permissible limit during the weigh-in on the morning of the final.
Vinesh had initially challenged the United World Wrestling’s (UWW) decision to replace her and sought another weigh-in before the final. But there wasn’t enough time for CAS to take a decision within an hour.
Vinesh then appealed that she be granted a shared silver for reaching the final. After a tense one-week report, her dream has been shattered.
“The Ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport renders the following decision: The application filed by Vinesh Phogat on 7 August is dismissed,” CAS stated.
A detailed order is expected in a few days.
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha expressed her shock and disappointment at the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at CAS.
Standing by Vinesh, IOA said that a ‘deeper examination’ is needed and was exploring more legal options.
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