Paris Paralympics: Iranian athlete’s gold medal stripped over flag display: Here is why

In a bizarre turn of events at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Iranian javelin thrower Sadegh Beit Sayah was disqualified after securing the top position in the men’s javelin throw F41 category, resulting in India’s Navdeep Singh being awarded the gold medal.

Beit Sayah had initially set a new Paralympic record in the men’s javelin throw F11 category with an impressive throw of 47.64 meters. However, his celebration included displaying a religious flag, which led to his disqualification. This incident altered the medal standings, promoting Navdeep Singh’s silver medal to gold.

Officials stated that Beit Sayah received a yellow card for displaying the flag, a violation of the Paralympic Committee’s code of conduct. He was subsequently removed from the competition for “unsporting conduct,” according to World Athletics.

The disqualification stems from an alleged breach of Rule 8.1 of the International Paralympic Committee’s code of conduct, which prohibits “unsporting or improper conduct” during competitions.

In response, officials from Iran’s track and field team have lodged a protest against the disqualification of their athlete.