Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has decided not to contest the Delhi High Court’s ruling permitting Vinesh Phogat to participate in the Asian Games 2026 selection trials. The court directed WFI to let the Olympian and two-time World Championships medallist compete in the trials scheduled for May 30 and 31 in New Delhi. The selection process will be video-recorded and overseen by independent observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
The WFI sources have confirmed that the federation will adhere to the court’s instructions. Despite logistical challenges if Phogat qualifies through the trials, as the list of participants has already been sent to Japan, the federation will respect the court’s decision. The federation mentioned that if Phogat secures a spot in the final squad, she will have to compete in the 50kg category as an iconic player.
The Delhi High Court, while granting interim relief to Phogat, criticized the WFI’s selection process, emphasizing that motherhood should not be a reason to exclude female athletes from professional opportunities. The court highlighted that motherhood is a significant aspect of life deserving sensitivity and accommodation. It also rebuked the WFI for its language in a notice to Phogat, calling it “deplorable” and “vindictive.”
