IOC President Responds to Vinesh Phogat’s Suggestion of Awarding Two Silver Medals in One Category at Olympics

Paris :

The President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach discussed Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the final of women’s 50 kg wrestling at the Paris Olympics and mentioned that they will “adhere to the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)”. Vinesh was supposed to face off against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt from the United States for the gold medal but was eliminated on Wednesday for exceeding the weight limit by a mere 100 grams. Following her disqualification, Phogat appealed to the CAS to grant her the silver medal.

The CAS announced that a decision regarding awarding Vinesh Phogat a silver medal after her disqualification from the final of women’s 50 kg wrestling will be made before the conclusion of the ongoing high-profile event.

In a statement, CAS stated, “An appeal was submitted at the CAS Ad hoc Division at 16:45 CEST on 7 August 2024 by Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat (the Applicant) concerning the decision made by United World Wrestling (UWW) to replace her, due to her failed second weigh-in, before the gold medal match of the Women’s Freestyle 50kg competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 that was scheduled to start at 18:15 CEST on the same day (the Challenged Decision).”

“Initially, the applicant sought a ruling from the CAS Ad hoc Division invalidating the challenged decision and requesting another weigh-in before the final match along with a declaration that she be deemed eligible and qualified to participate in the final. However, she did not seek urgent interim measures. While the CAS Ad hoc Division process is swift, it was not feasible to issue a decision on the merits within an hour, considering that the Respondent UWW (United World Wrestling) would have needed to be promptly heard. The process is ongoing and the Applicant has confirmed her desire for the annulment of the challenged decision and to be given a (shared) silver medal,” the statement added.

During a press briefing, Thomas Bach stated that there cannot be two silver medals in the same category. He emphasized the need to adhere to the regulations of the International Federation.

“Inquiring about the possibility of having two silver medals in one category, my response is negative. The regulations of the International Federation must be followed and United World Wrestling, the International Federation, made this decision…,” Bach mentioned.

The IOC President concluded by affirming that they will abide by CAS’s decision in the end.

“When considering the federation or any entity tasked with making such a decision, the question arises: when and where do you draw the line? Do you decide to award it with 100 grams, but not with 102 grams?… Now it is in the hands of CAS, and ultimately, we will respect CAS’s decision. However, it is the responsibility of the International Federation to enforce and interpret their rules. This falls under their jurisdiction,” he added.

Following her disqualification from the final of the Paris Olympics, Phogat declared her retirement from wrestling on Thursday.

In a heartfelt post on X, Phogat conveyed her feelings of defeat and appreciation, expressing, “Maa kushti (wrestling) emerged victorious against me, I lost. Please forgive me, your dream and my courage have been shattered. I no longer possess the strength. Farewell Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be grateful to all of you for your forgiveness.”