Italian Rower Giacomo Perini Disqualified from Paris Paralympics 2024, Loses Bronze Medal Over Mobile Phone Violation

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Italian rower Giacomo Perini experienced a dramatic turn of events at the Paris Paralympics 2024 when his bronze medal was revoked after an investigation revealed a violation of competition rules.

The 28-year-old had initially secured third place in the PR1 Men’s Single Sculls final, a category designed for athletes who rely solely on their arms and shoulders to row. However, his moment of triumph was quickly overshadowed by a disqualification due to the presence of a mobile phone on his boat during the race.

The controversy arose when race officials discovered that Perini had a mobile phone in a small bag on his boat, which also contained a bottle of water. While the device was not used during the race, its mere presence violated the strict regulations set by World Rowing.

According to Rule 28 and Appendix R2, any communication equipment, whether utilized or not, is prohibited during competition. As a result, Perini was disqualified and relegated to last place in the event.

Perini, however, firmly maintained that the phone’s presence was an oversight. He explained that the device had been left in the bag from the previous evening and emphasized that he never used it during the race.

“I handed the phone over to the jury to demonstrate that the last call was made the night before, to my psychologist,” Perini said in his defense. He also disputed the implication that he was in breach of the communication rules, arguing that the regulations only prohibit the use of such equipment, not its possession.

Despite Perini's defense, the Italian Rowing Federation’s appeal against the decision was swiftly rejected. With Perini disqualified, Australia's Erik Horrie, who had initially finished fourth, was promoted to the bronze medal position.

Reflecting on the situation, Horrie acknowledged the unusual circumstances but accepted the outcome, stating, "There are rules, and as athletes, we must adhere to them."