Italian Rower Giacomo Perini Loses Bronze Medal Due to Mobile Phone Oversight at Paris 2024 Paralympics
In a significant turn of events during the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Italian rower Giacomo Perini faced disqualification, resulting in the loss of his bronze medal due to the presence of a mobile phone on his boat. Perini, who is 28 years old, had initially finished third in the PR1 men’s single sculls final, an event designated for competitors who row exclusively with their arms and shoulders. However, the euphoria of his performance was swiftly overshadowed by a disqualification announcement from World Rowing shortly thereafter.
The organization declared that Perini was found in violation of rule 28 and Appendix R2, Bye-Law of rule 28, which prohibits the use of communication devices during races. In his defense, Perini claimed that the phone was an oversight, as it had been unintentionally left in a small bag on the boat alongside a water bottle. He insisted that he had not utilized the mobile phone at any time during the race, stating, “They did not ‘find’ me simply because I never used the mobile phone on the boat.”
To further clarify his position, Perini submitted the phone to the jury, indicating that the last call recorded was made the previous night to his psychologist. He argued that the relevant regulations do not explicitly forbid the presence of a phone; rather, they specifically outlaw communication from outside the boat using electronic devices.
The rule stipulates that “no communication with the crew is permitted from outside the boat using electric or electronic equipment.” Despite the Italian Rowing Federation’s efforts to appeal the decision, their request was rejected, prompting them to prepare for a further appeal to the World Rowing Executive Board.
As a result of Perini’s disqualification, Erik Horrie of Australia was elevated to the bronze medal position. The gold medal was secured by Britain’s Benjamin Pritchard, with Ukraine’s Roman Polianskyi claiming silver. This incident highlights the stringent adherence to competition rules in modern sports, underscoring the complexities athletes face in high-pressure environments.
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