IOA Chief PT Usha Expresses Disappointment Over CAS Dismissal of Vinesh Phogat’s Olympics Disqualification Appeal

New Delhi: PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), has expressed her shock and disappointment over the recent decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to dismiss wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application against the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOA criticized what they see as 'inhumane regulations' that do not take into account the physical and mental challenges faced by athletes. Vinesh Phogat, 29, was disqualified for being just 100gm overweight during the weigh-in on the morning of the women’s 50kg freestyle final last week.

“The operative part of the August 14 decision, which dismisses Vinesh’s application to be awarded a shared silver medal in women’s 50 kg category at the Paris Olympic Games has significant implications for her in particular and the sporting community at large,” the IOA stated.