IOC Chief Bach Comments on Vinesh Phogat's Paris Olympics Disqualification

IOC President Thomas Bach addressed the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the women's 50 kg wrestling final at the Paris Olympics. Phogat was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams. The Court of Arbitration for Sport is yet to decide on her request for a silver medal.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has weighed in on Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the women's 50 kg wrestling final at the Paris Olympics. Bach stated they will abide by the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) final decision on the matter.

Phogat faced disqualification on Wednesday after breaching the weight limit by 100 grams. Originally slated to compete against U.S. athlete Sarah Ann Hildebrandt for the gold medal, Phogat has since petitioned CAS for a silver medal following the disqualification.

The CAS confirmed on Friday that the decision regarding Phogat's request will be made before the Olympic Games conclude. The administrative process was initiated by the Indian wrestler after her unsuccessful second weigh-in. CAS noted the procedural challenge of rendering a decision in under an hour while ensuring all parties, including the United World Wrestling (UWW), are adequately heard.

Initially, Phogat sought an annulment of the disqualification decision and requested another weigh-in before the final match. However, due to time constraints, the CAS could not issue an urgent interim decision. Phogat has subsequently confirmed her request for a shared silver medal. Addressing a press conference, Bach emphasized adherence to International Federation regulations, stating, “If you ask generally about having two silver medals in one category, then my answer is no. The regulations of the International Federation have to be followed.”

Bach underscored the importance of consistent rule application, questioning, “When and where do you make the cut? Do you say with 100 grams we give it, but with 102 grams we don’t give it anymore?” Ultimately, Bach assured that the IOC will follow the CAS's final decision.

Following her disqualification, Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling in an emotional social media post, expressing defeat and gratitude, “Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage have been broken. I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness.”