Vinesh Phogat's chances at an Olympic medal not completely ruled out yet. Here's how

After a heartbreaking ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Vinesh Phogat's appeal against her disqualification from the Olympics, chances for a medal are not all gone.

What looks like a ray of hope for all Indians, who were still hoping for another medal at the now concluded Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat can still file an appeal against the CAS' single-line order.

On Wednesday night, the Court dismissed the 29-year-old wrestler's petition where she appealed for a joint silver medal, following her disqualification moments before the gold medal bout.


Vinesh was scheduled to compete against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States for the gold medal on August 7. However, she was disqualified from the women’s 50kg final after the weigh-in revealed she was 100 grams over the 50kg weight limit.

How Vinesh still has a chance at an Olympic medal
According to Vidushpat Singhania, Indian Olympic Association's (IOA) advocate, CAS decision can be appealed against at the Swiss Federal Tribunal within 30 days.

Speaking to ANI, the lawyer explained that the order can be challenged and the 30 days will begin only once the full order is given by CAS.

"No detailed order has come yet. Only a single-line order has come so far that her appeal has been dismissed. They have not cited a reason why has it been dismissed or why did they take so much time. We were both surprised and disappointed that a decision came last evening and her appeal was dismissed. We hope that the detailed order will come in 10-15 days. CAS decision can be appealed against at the Swiss Federal Tribunal within 30 days. The 30-day time will begin after a detailed order comes. Harish Salve is with us, he will guide us. We will sit with him, draft an appeal and file it," Vidushpat said.

Also Read: Vinesh Phogat breaks her silence on Olympic disqualification with Instagram post

IOA 'exploring further legal options'
Following the Wednesday night verdict, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha expressed her shock and disappointment at the Sole Arbitrator’s decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to dismiss wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application against United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), according to an official IOA statement.

"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 said in its statement.

The IOA also stated that it 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."