Vinesh Phogat Accuses Wrestling Federation of India of Deliberately Blocking Her Return
Phogat’s Complaints About Registration Issues
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has claimed that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is intentionally hindering her return to competitive wrestling. As the deadlines for the Asian and World Championships trials approach, Phogat expressed her concerns about being unable to register for upcoming events. Following her decision to retire after a disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics, Phogat reversed that choice last December. In an interview with The Indian Express, she noted that while she was preparing for the National Open Ranking tournament scheduled for next month, she encountered difficulties in the registration process.
Phogat stated that when she attempted to register on the WFI portal, she was informed that the registration period had already closed. “I am hoping to make a comeback at the National Open Ranking Tournament. The registration for it was open until April 30. However, when I tried to register, the portal said it was now closed. I have been trying to contact the administrative staff of the federation, but they haven’t responded to my calls,” Phogat commented.
Concerns Over Selection Criteria Changes
In addition to her registration challenges, Phogat alleged that she faced similar obstacles at the Federation Cup. She stated that the criteria for team selection were altered at the last minute, preventing her from competing in that event as well. “I intended to compete there, too, but the team selection criteria were changed at the last minute, so I couldn’t take part. It feels like this is a deliberate attempt to stop me from competing, especially since this is an important tournament to remain in contention for the Asian Games and World Championship selection trials,” she explained.
WFI’s Response to Allegations
In response to Phogat’s accusations, WFI chief Sanjay Singh rejected her claims, asserting that many wrestlers encountered similar registration issues. Singh emphasized that the WFI remains committed to supporting wrestlers and ensuring that all eligible competitors can participate. He referred to the federation’s selection policy for the Asian Games, which stipulates that only medal winners from the 2025 National Championships and the 2026 Federation Cup are permitted to enter senior selection trials.
Singh added that athletes who excel in the Open Ranking tournament would secure a spot in the national camp, enhancing their chances for selection in upcoming trials. “We received similar complaints from other wrestlers, too. They got in touch with our staff, and their issues were resolved. We are not going to stop anybody from competing, and the tournament remains open for everyone,” Singh stated.
