The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has ruled in favor of the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics, citing her failure to meet the weight requirements. This decision comes after Phogat, a medal hopeful who had secured a historic victory over Japan’s Yui Susaki, was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit on the second day of competition in the women’s 50kg category.
In its detailed order published on Monday, the CAS acknowledged Phogat’s experience as a seasoned wrestler and her voluntary participation in the chosen weight category. The court asserted that, as an experienced athlete familiar with the rules, Phogat was aware of the weight limitations and had consciously chosen to compete under those conditions. The CAS further emphasized that Phogat’s inability to meet the weight limit was directly attributed to her chosen weight management strategy and not to any external factors or interference.
Based on these findings, the CAS concluded that Phogat’s appeal for a joint silver medal, alongside Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, lacked merit. The CAS stated that Phogat had willingly entered the 50kg category, fully understanding the weight requirements. The court’s statement highlighted that the rules clearly state that each contestant is responsible for their own weight management and competes at their own risk. They also emphasized that Phogat had previously competed under these rules and had no evidence to suggest that she did not understand the weight regulations. Phogat’s chosen weight management strategy, which ultimately led to her disqualification, was deemed to be her own responsibility.
However, the CAS did express concern over the severity of the disqualification penalty. The court labeled the consequence of complete elimination without ranking as “draconian,” especially considering Phogat’s successful performance in earlier rounds. The CAS proposed a potentially fairer approach, suggesting that disqualification should only apply to the round where the weight violation occurred, allowing the athlete to retain their ranking from previous rounds.
The CAS, while emphasizing the athlete’s responsibility to comply with weight regulations, also raised a crucial point about the need for a more nuanced approach to penalties in such situations. This decision highlights the ongoing debate surrounding weight regulations in sports, particularly the impact of stringent penalties on athletes’ careers and the need for a balance between fair competition and athlete well-being.
