WFI

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has entered a formal dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India after being barred from competition despite claiming clearance from global anti-doping authorities. Phogat has stated that both the International Testing Agency and the World Anti-Doping Agency have approved her return to competitive wrestling from January 1, 2026. However, the WFI has ruled her ineligible under WADA Rule 5.6.1, which governs the reinstatement of retired athletes.

Wrestling Federation of India has introduced fresh eligibility rules for the upcoming Asian Games wrestling trials, effectively excluding veteran wrestler Vinesh Phogat from contention. Under the revised framework, only medal winners from competitions conducted during 2025 and 2026 will be permitted to participate in the final selection process. Since Phogat has not competed professionally following her controversial disqualification at the 2024 Summer Olympics, the new criteria significantly diminish her chances of representing India at the Continental event.