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Vinesh alleges deliberate attempt by WFI to block return after 20 months
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat accuses the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of deliberately blocking her comeback after nearly 20 months. She says the National Open Ranking Tournament registration is closed and officials are unresponsive, while the federation denies wrongdoing and says the tournament remains open for all.
Why It Matters
The dispute highlights governance and access concerns within the WFI that could affect Indian wrestlers' pathway back to top-level competition ahead of the Asian Games and World Championships.
Timeline
6 Events
National Open Ranking Tournament details and purpose
April 28, 2026
The tournament, scheduled for May 10-12 in Gonda, UP, is described as an important pathway for selection to the Asian Games and World Championship trials.
WFI denies wrongdoing
April 28, 2026
WFI president Sanjay Singh denied any attempt to stop athletes from competing, stating similar complaints from other wrestlers were resolved after contacting officials.
Registration for National Open Ranking Tournament blocked
April 28, 2026
Vinesh claimed the registration for the National Open Ranking Tournament, scheduled for May 10-12 in Gonda, UP, was blocked as the registration portal showed entries as closed, and staff did not respond.
Federation Cup: team selection criteria changed at last minute
December 2025
She stated that team selection criteria were changed at the last minute for the Federation Cup, preventing her from taking part.
Vinesh Phogat announces comeback
December 2025
Vinesh Phogat announced her return to wrestling in December 2025.
Paris 2024 Olympics final: Vinesh Phogat disqualified for missing weight
2024
Vinesh Phogat reached the final at the Paris Olympics 2024 but was disqualified for missing weight.