The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has announced that the verdict on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal will be deferred until August 11. The reasoned order will be issued at a later date.
Vinesh had initially appealed for reinstatement in the gold medal bout of the World Wrestling Championships after being disqualified for being overweight. She subsequently amended her appeal, requesting a joint silver medal instead.
The decision to defer the verdict comes after a comprehensive and thorough process overseen by Sole Arbitrator Annabelle Bennett. Bennett dedicated three hours to hearing arguments from all parties involved. The parties were also provided the opportunity to submit detailed legal briefs, followed by a hearing and oral arguments, ensuring a complete examination of the matter.
The 29-year-old wrestler was disqualified on the morning of the final after being found slightly over the weight limit by 100 grams. Vinesh weighed 49.90kg on Tuesday morning prior to her first-round bout, well within the permissible limit. However, she gained weight throughout the day as she secured three consecutive victories, including a win over defending Olympic champion Yui Susaki, to reach the final.
Following Vinesh’s disqualification, Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba, whom Vinesh had defeated in the semifinal, replaced her in the gold medal bout. The bout was ultimately won by Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA. Vinesh’s appeal focuses on being awarded a joint silver medal.
It is important to note that Vinesh had announced her retirement from wrestling on social media a day after her disqualification. The outcome of her appeal could potentially impact her future in the sport.
