Paris, Aug 12 (FN Agency) In the wake of the ongoing controversy surrounding Vinesh Phogat’s weigh-in incident, United World Wrestling (UWW) President Nenad Lalovic has spoken out, emphasising the organisation’s commitment to its established regulations. Speaking during the live broadcast of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing, Lalovic expressed his sympathy for the situation but firmly stated that UWW had no choice but to adhere to its rules. “I am so sorry for what happened, but no matter the size of your country, athletes are athletes,” Lalovic remarked. He underscored the transparency of the weigh-in process, which was publicly observed. “How can we allow someone to compete when we all saw what happened?
We don’t have any other choice but to follow our rules,” he continued. The controversy has centred on a weigh-in incident involving Phogat, raising questions about the rigidity of UWW’s regulations. Despite this, Lalovic made it clear that there would be no major changes to the weigh-in rules. “We introduced that rule as we care for the health of the athletes,” Lalovic explained. He added that while minor adjustments could be considered, a significant overhaul of the rules was not on the table. “We are counseled and helped by our medical commission. They are absolutely against any change,” Lalovic noted.The outcome of the CAS hearing and its implications for Phogat and future competitions will be closely monitored in the coming days.