CAS Extends Decision Deadline for Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Medal Appeal Till August 13

Paris: The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for a decision on wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her Olympic disqualification.

The ruling, initially expected by 9:30 PM IST on 10 August, has been postponed by 72 hours. CAS’s Sole Arbitrator, Honourable Dr. Annabelle Bennett will now announce the decision by 9:30 PM IST on 13 August.

This marks the second extension in this case, with CAS granting both parties additional time until 11 August to submit further evidence. The decision is crucial as the Paris Olympics are set to conclude on 11 August.

On 9 August, CAS held a three-hour hearing in Paris to review Vinesh Phogat’s appeal. The wrestler, who participated virtually, sought to overturn her disqualification, which occurred due to a 100-gram weight excess during the weigh-in for the women’s 50kg wrestling category on 7 August. Senior counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania represented Vinesh in the hearing, which was overseen by Dr. Bennett.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has expressed optimism about a favourable outcome, acknowledging the efforts of the senior advocates in representing Vinesh.