Vinesh Phogat CAS Hearing Verdict: Major Loophole Found in Vinesh's Case That Could Be Used By India

Vinesh Phogat's dream of winning an Olympic gold was snatched away from her after she was found 100 grams overweight during the weigh-ins before the Women's 50Kg Wrestling final. Since the Indian grappler failed to stay under the weight limit, she was disqualified, leading to a lot of outrage and angst in India. Vinesh had a chance to make history for India but everything came undone before the final could even take place. Phogat has appealed for a joint silver medal, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport is yet to make the verdict official. The UWW has opposed Vinesh's plea as they want wrestlers to stick to the regulations, but there is a big loophole in the rulebook, and things could be in Vinesh's favour.

Also Read: Para shuttler Pramod Bhagat suspended for 18 months, to miss Paris Paralympics

A Big Loophole in the UWW Rulebook to Aid Vinesh Phogat’s Case for a Silver Medal?

The United World Wrestling (UWW) has opposed to Vinesh's plea as it reportedly states that Vinesh was found 100 gms overweight, and the failed weigh-in cannot be disregarded, as they strictly follow the rules. Vinesh wasn't offered any exception and hence missed out on the assured medal. However, there seems to be a significant loophole in the UWW rulebook, which Vinesh Phogat and her legal team could use and exploit during the case's hearing.

According to UWW rules, “the person who claims the repechage is the one who loses to the finalist.”

Japan's Yui Susaki was allowed to compete for the bronze medal in the repechage rounds of the 50kg freestyle wrestling event. But if the rules are to be followed and Vinesh isn't deemed a finalist, Susaki's participation in the bronze medal is also disputed. Vinesh was eliminated from the gold medal match after being over the weight limit during the weigh-ins and was replaced by Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba ( who Vinesh beat 5-0 in the semifinal). So ideally the opponent who lost to Guzman should get the chance to compete in the repechage. 

Also Read: Jordan Chiles medal inquiry: USA Gymnastics says arbitration panel won't reconsider decision

The Japanese Wrestler shouldn't have been permitted to play in the repechage since Vinesh was disqualified. But the United Wrestling World let it happen. The suspense regarding the Japanese grappler being permitted to participate in the tournament adds interest to the scenario.

The official verdict of the hearing is yet to be made, and a lot of support has been pouring in for Vinesh Phogat to get the joint silver medal. The decision on the case is to be announced on Tuesday at around 9:30 pm IST (6 pm Paris time).