Sports – Delhi High Court Questions WFI Decision on Vinesh Phogat Return
Sports – Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s return to competitive wrestling has come under judicial scrutiny after the Delhi High Court raised concerns over the Wrestling Federation of India’s decision to bar her from domestic events. The court observed on Friday that internal disagreements within the federation should not negatively affect the sport or athletes attempting to resume their careers.
Court Raises Concerns Over Federation’s Stand
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court questioned the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) over its move to declare Phogat ineligible for participation in national-level wrestling competitions. The bench noted that the federation appeared to have altered its earlier selection and eligibility approach specifically in her matter.
The judges also remarked that sports administration must remain fair and balanced, especially when athletes are trying to rebuild their professional journey. The court orally observed that wrestling as a sport should not suffer because of ongoing conflicts or disputes involving officials and athletes.
WFI Issued Show-Cause Notice in May
The controversy began after the federation served a show-cause notice to Phogat on May 9. In the notice, the WFI cited several reasons behind its action against the wrestler. Among the concerns raised were her failure to meet the prescribed weight category during the 2024 Paris Olympics and alleged violations linked to anti-doping whereabouts requirements.
The federation also questioned her participation in two separate weight divisions during the trials conducted for an Olympic qualifying event. According to WFI, these issues collectively affected her eligibility under existing regulations.
Retirement and Return to Wrestling
Phogat had announced her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification at the Paris Olympics, an incident that attracted national attention. Following her departure from the sport, she entered a new phase in her personal life and later became a mother. In July 2025, she gave birth to a baby boy.
Several months later, on December 12, 2025, Phogat publicly declared that she intended to make a comeback to competitive wrestling. Her decision generated widespread discussion within the sporting community, particularly because of the challenges associated with returning to elite competition after retirement.
The WFI, however, argued that athletes who retire are required to complete a mandatory six-month notice period under anti-doping regulations before they can officially compete again. The federation relied on this rule while opposing her immediate return to domestic tournaments.
Participation in National Tournament Despite Objection
Despite being declared ineligible, Phogat participated in the National Open Ranking Tournament held in Gonda. She also formally responded to the show-cause notice issued by the federation and challenged the grounds mentioned against her.
Her participation in the event further intensified the dispute between the athlete and the governing body. Legal representatives appearing in court argued over whether the federation’s interpretation of the rules had been applied consistently in similar cases involving other wrestlers.
Motherhood Mentioned During Court Proceedings
During the proceedings, the High Court also referred to the issue of motherhood while discussing the case. The bench observed that motherhood is respected and celebrated in the country and indicated that such personal circumstances should be treated with sensitivity and fairness while considering an athlete’s professional future.
The remarks were seen as significant because they highlighted the broader conversation around women athletes balancing family responsibilities and professional careers after childbirth.
Background of Earlier Wrestling Protests
The case has attracted additional attention due to Phogat’s earlier allegations against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. In recent public statements, Phogat said she was among the six women wrestlers who had accused Singh of sexual harassment.
She was also one of the prominent faces of the wrestlers’ protest held in 2023, where athletes demanded action against the former federation chief. The protest had triggered a nationwide debate over athlete safety, governance reforms, and accountability within sports bodies.