The case involves a dispute between the Irish Hockey Association (IHA) and the Lithuanian Hockey Federation (LHF) regarding the outcome of a qualification match for the 10th Women’s World Cup in 2002. The match between Lithuania and Ireland ended in a 2-2 draw, leading to a penalty stroke competition. After the initial five strokes resulted in a tie, the umpire incorrectly allowed Ireland to take the first stroke in the sudden-death series, violating Tournament Regulation 11.4. Lithuania won the penalty shootout, but the IHA protested the umpire’s error. The Tournament Director upheld the protest and ordered a replay of the second penalty series. Lithuania refused to participate, leading to their withdrawal from the tournament and Ireland’s advancement.
The LHF appealed to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Disciplinary Commission, which ruled that the Tournament Director breached Regulation 11.4 but also found her decision influenced by external advice, compromising her independence. The Commission declared Lithuania the winner but noted their refusal to replay the penalties warranted further qualification rather than automatic advancement. The IHA challenged the Commission’s jurisdiction, arguing the Tournament Director’s decision was final under FIH regulations. The LHF sought partial alteration of the decision to secure Lithuania’s right to compete for higher placement.
The case was brought before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which examined jurisdictional authority, procedural fairness, and the correct application of FIH regulations. The CAS panel determined it had jurisdiction under FIH Statutes and Swiss law, given the FIH’s legal domicile. The panel upheld the Tournament Director’s authority to order a replay, dismissing claims she abdicated her responsibility or acted under undue influence. It found Lithuania’s refusal to comply constituted misconduct and withdrawal from the tournament. The panel emphasized the importance of adhering to strict game rules and respecting on-field officials’ decisions, even in contentious situations.
Ultimately, the CAS ruled in favor of the IHA, reinstating the Tournament Director’s original decision and confirming Ireland’s fifth-place finish. The FIH Disciplinary Commission’s ruling was set aside, and Lithuania’s appeal was dismissed. The case underscored the balance between finality in sports decisions and accountability for rule violations, reinforcing the principle that technical breaches should not override fairness when no prejudice is caused. The resolution affirmed Ireland’s position and upheld the integrity of tournament regulations.