Why was Navdeep Singh's Silver Medal Upgraded to Gold at Paris Paralympics?

Indian para-athlete Navdeep Singh won a historic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on Saturday. Navdeep won the gold medal in the men's javelin throw F41 event. Initially, Navdeep had won the silver medal, and the top spot was secured by Iran's Sadegh Beit Sayah but that changed quickly and the Indian para-athlete was awarded the gold medal. 

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Why was Navdeep's silver medal upgraded to gold?

In a remarkable turn of events at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Navdeep Singh’s silver medal was upgraded to gold after a decision taken by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), following a thorough review process.

Navdeep, who initially secured silver in the men's javelin throw F41 event, was awarded the gold medal after the disqualification of Sadegh Beit Sayah due to a violation of Rule 8.1 of the World Para Athletics Rules and Regulations. 

Sadegh Beit Sayah was disqualified for displaying an objectionable flag and making political gestures during the event. Sadegh Beit Sayah's Paralympic record was also nullified following his disqualification. 

Also Read: 'I Didn't Have that Pressure...': Nitesh Kumar Embraces Pressure-Free Gold Medal at Paralympics 2024

Who is Navdeep Singh?

Born in Panipat, Haryana , Navdeep faced challenges from the start but he refused to let his condition define him.

Inspired by his father, a national-level wrestler and Gram Sachiv, Navdeep channelled his passion into athletics, overcoming societal expectations and physical limitations.

After completing his education at Unique Public School and earning a B.A. in Hindi (Hons.) from Delhi University, Navdeep's commitment to sports only grew stronger.

His career took a decisive turn in 2017, when he began professional coaching and made his international debut at the Asian Youth Para Games, where he won gold in the javelin throw.

The victory marked a turning point, proving that his determination and grit could overcome any challenge. Navdeep went on to claim five national gold medals and secured an international gold at the 2021 Fazza International Championship in Dubai.

Despite setbacks at the Tokyo Paralympics and the Asian Para Games in 2022, where he finished fourth, Navdeep, who serves as an inspector in the Income Tax Department in Bengaluru, rebounded by earning bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, earlier this year.