CAS Delays Verdict on Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification: Hopes High for Favorable Outcome

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has again delayed its decision regarding wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics; hopes remain high for a favorable verdict by August 16.

The verdict on wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics has been delayed once again. The Wrestling Federation of India's Vice-President, Jai Prakash Chaudhary, expressed optimism that the decision would favor the athlete. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has postponed its verdict on Phogat's appeal to August 16.

According to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the decision was initially set for August 13 but has now been extended. The CAS ad hoc division president allowed Sole Arbitrator Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett more time to issue the ruling. The new deadline is 6:00 p.m. (Paris time) on August 16.

Phogat was disqualified after exceeding the 50kg weight limit by 100 grams. She appealed to CAS for the silver medal, having reached the final by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. Following Phogat's disqualification, IOA President PT Usha clarified that weight management is the responsibility of athletes and their coaches, not IOA's Chief Medical Officer.

(With inputs from agencies.)