The Iran Judo Federation’s appeal was heard Tuesday against a four-year ban on international events for refusing to allow its athletes to face Israeli opponents.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport has ruled that Iran’s appeal against a ruling by the International Judo Federation was confirmed via a video link. The verdict is expected to last at least a few weeks.
The IJF acted against Iran after former world champion Saeid Mollaei left the team claiming he was ordered to lose matches at the 2019 world championship to avoid facing the Israelis.
Mollaei fled to Germany, citing fears for his safety in Iran, and later obtained approval from the International Olympic Committee to compete for Mongolia. He won a silver medal in the 81 kilogram category at the Tokyo Olympics in July.
The IJF initially imposed an indefinite ban on the Iranian federation until its discrimination policy was changed. This was rejected in CAS and the case was referred back to the governing body which established a four-year suspension in April.
The temporary ban, which could still be lifted if Iranian officials allow its athletes to compete freely, is scheduled for September 2023.
