Phogat Battles WFI Over Comeback Ban

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has publicly clashed with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), asserting the federation wants her to quit the sport. Arriving in Gonda for the National Open Ranking tournament, Phogat stated she is eligible to compete again, refuting the WFI's claims. The WFI, however, maintains that disciplinary proceedings must be completed before she can return, citing a mandatory six-month notice period for athletes returning from retirement under anti-doping rules. This ruling would make her ineligible until June 26, 2026.

Phogat believes she has complied with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules by formally notifying United World Wrestling (UWW) in June about her intention to resume competition after her retirement. She also informed the WFI on December 12 about her comeback plans. Phogat questioned the WFI's timing in issuing a show-cause notice just two days before the tournament, stating she would provide a detailed response within 14 days.

Sources within the WFI expressed dissatisfaction with Phogat's initial reply, suggesting it did not adequately address the broader disciplinary charges. They indicated that a disciplinary hearing is required before she can be permitted to compete. The controversy escalated after the WFI issued a notice accusing Phogat of indiscipline, rule breaches, and anti-doping procedural violations. The federation denied claims that selection criteria were altered to exclude her, emphasizing that a "wrong narrative" was being spread.