THE COURT OF ARBITRATION FOR SPORT: UPHOLDING FAIRNESS IN ATHLETICS

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), established in 1984 and based in Lausanne, Switzerland, plays a crucial role in maintaining fairness in the world of sports. Independent from any sports organization, CAS provides a neutral platform for resolving disputes among athletes, coaches, and federations. With nearly 300 arbitrators from 87 countries, CAS handles around 300 cases annually, ranging from contractual disputes to doping issues.

The arbitration process at CAS is efficient and thorough, starting with a statement of appeal and moving through a structured exchange of statements, followed by a hearing where evidence is presented. Final decisions, enforceable as ordinary court judgments, are typically communicated within weeks, though urgent cases can be resolved more quickly.

A recent high-profile case involves Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics for being 100 grams over the weight limit. This disqualification denied her a chance to compete for gold or secure a silver medal. Vinesh has appealed to CAS, seeking a review of her case, hoping for fairness and the opportunity to compete again.

Phogat’s case highlights the immense pressures athletes face and the critical role CAS plays in upholding justice in sports, ensuring that the spirit of competition remains fair and just