"140 Crore Indians Waiting": Vinesh Phogat's Uncle Mahavir On Appeal Verdict To NDTV

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) continues to delay its verdict on Vinesh Phoga's case, seeking more time to come to a conclusion. Amid this excruciating period of wait, her uncle Mahavir Phogat spoke exclusively to NDTV, saying he is hopeful that the decision will be in her favour. Vinesh Phogat was disqualified on the morning of the Paris Olympics final for exceeding the 50kg weight limit. During the weigh-in, she was found to be 100 grams over the limit. Vinesh had requested the Court of Arbitration in Sport (CAS) to award her the silver medal.

According to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the verdict, originally scheduled for Tuesday, August 13 at 9:30 pm IST, has been delayed to August 16.

While reacting to the recent delay, Mahavir expressed hope that the verdict will be in Vinesh's favour.

"We have been waiting for the decision. 140 crore Indians have been waiting but it is getting delayed again and again. We still believe that the decision will be in our favour and every Indian's faith will be rewarded," Mahavir Phogat told NDTV in an exclusive chat.

"Vinesh defeated Olympic gold medallist, world champion to reach the final. She should at least get a silver medal. She missed the final by 100 grams. The decision lies in the hands of CAS, but we are hopeful," he further said, stressing on the fact that Vinesh at least deserved a silver medal.

When asked about Vinesh's current mental state and her decision to reitre from wrestling, her uncle said that the family members will sit together and try to convince her for 2028 LA Games participation.

"No matter which sport it is, if a player reaches the gold medal match and gets disqualified, hearts get broken. After Vinesh comes back home, we will speak to