The Reasons Behind Vinesh Phogat’s Empty-Handed Return From Paris: The Weigh-In Rule That Disqualified Her in Wrestling

The Exclusion Event

At the Paris Olympics in 2024, Vinesh Phogat was scheduled to compete against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States in the women’s 50kg wrestling freestyle final. But according to an IOA statement, she was disqualified because, on the morning of the fight, her weight was just a few grammes over the 50kg limit. Phogat is no longer able to compete for the gold medal due to this unforeseen turn of circumstances.

The Significance of Weigh-in Procedures and Regulations

The United World Wrestling International Wrestling Rules tightly regulate weigh-ins, an important component of wrestling matches. These rules are described in the Competition Procedure’s Article 11. An athlete is eliminated and ranked last without a rank if they miss or fail the weigh-in, whether it is their first or second attempt.

Final Entries Submission

The team leader must submit to the organiser by 12:00 PM on the day before the weigh-in any modifications made to the final entries from the initial entries. These modifications are only permitted in extraordinary situations, including when a medical certificate confirming the injury has occurred. Changes made after this date won’t be allowed.

Weigh-In Procedure Every day Weigh-Ins

Every morning, weigh-ins for the appropriate weight category take place, and they last 30 minutes. The weigh-in, which takes fifteen minutes, is only required of wrestlers competing in the repechages and finals on the second morning.

Medical Evaluation

On the first morning of the competition, wrestlers had to go through a medical examination. They cannot take part in the weigh-in without this examination. During the medical examination and weigh-in, all required papers, such as a licence and accreditation, must be presented.

Required Attire and Documentation

There is no weight tolerance for the singlet’s weight, and the singlet is the sole acceptable item of clothing for the weigh-in. Wrestlers need to be in peak physical shape, with very short fingernails required.

Procedure for Weighing In

Wrestlers are permitted to step on the scale several times during the weigh-in period. Referees make sure wrestlers follow the dress code and weigh the required amount. A wrestler who is not dressed appropriately will not be weighed.

Control of Outcomes and Exceptions by Referees

Only the athletes on the official draw list will be under the referees’ authority. A wrestler is ranked last without a rank and is removed from the competition if they do not show up for the weigh-in or pass it.

Exceptions to Jurisdiction

Athletes who sustain an injury on the first day are not required to show up for the second weigh-in, and their first-day results are still valid. All competitors’ safety and a fair competition are guaranteed by these protocols.

Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification serves as a reminder of how closely weigh-in regulations are followed in wrestling. She tried her hardest, but she was unable to compete for the gold medal because she weighed a few grammes too much. The regulations are in place to protect the sport’s integrity and guarantee that every participant is treated fairly.