New Delhi, India

After several delays, the Court of Arbitration for Sports, on Wednesday (Aug 14), dismissed Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's appeal for a joint silver medal at the just-concluded Paris Olympics. Vinesh roared into the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final bout in the mega event but was disqualified ahead of her gold medal match, versus eventual gold medallist USA's Sarah Hildebrandt, for being marginally overweight of the permissible limit. As she appealed to the CAS, it ruled in favour of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the United World Wrestling (UWW). 

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However, this might not be the end of Vinesh's case. Notably, she might be able to challenge the Swiss court's verdict.

THE ROAD AHEAD FOR VINESH PHOGAT: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW -

As per the CAS website, any CAS verdict can be challenged. However, there is a catch. It can be done only on a 'very limited number of grounds'. 

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"Judicial recourse to the Swiss Federal Tribunal is allowed on a very limited number of grounds, such as lack of jurisdiction, violation of elementary procedural rules (e.g. violation of the right to a fair hearing) or incompatibility with public policy," the CAS website said.

REACTIONS POST THE CAS VERDICT

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, on Wednesday, expressed her shock and disappointment at the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at the CAS to dismiss the 29-year-old Vinesh's case.

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The IOA president, in an official statement, confirmed that the body will seek a legal recourse.

Also read: Vinesh Phogat CAS Verdict: Wrestler's appeal for joint-silver medal dismissed

"The IOA firmly believes that the total disqualification of an athlete for such a weight infraction on the second of two days warrants a deeper examination. Our legal representatives had duly brought this out in their submissions before the Sole Arbitrator. The matter involving Vinesh highlights the stringent and, arguably, inhumane regulations that fail to account for the physiological and psychological stresses athletes, particularly female athletes, undergo. It is a stark reminder of the need for more equitable and reasonable standards that prioritize athletes' well-being," Usha, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president stated.

The IOA further added, "In light of the order of the CAS, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Ms. Phogat and is exploring further legal options. The IOA is committed to ensuring that Vinesh's case is heard. It will continue to advocate justice and fairness in sports, ensuring that the rights and dignity of athletes and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times. We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our stakeholders, athletes, and the public."­

As per reports, Vinesh is expected to land in India on Aug 17 (Saturday).