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WFI bars Vinesh Phogat from 2026 Asian Games wrestling trials; ITA whereabouts warning noted
The Wrestling Federation of India says Vinesh Phogat is ineligible for the 2026 Asian Games wrestling selection trials under new rules limiting participation to medal winners of specified national championships. The move comes as Phogat pursues a comeback in the 57kg category, with trials set for May 30 (women) and May 31 (freestyle and Greco-Roman) in Delhi and Lucknow. An ITA whereabouts warning from December 2025 is also highlighted.
Why It Matters
This decision affects India’s prospects at the Asian Games and illustrates stringent eligibility criteria and compliance requirements for top wrestlers.
Timeline
4 Events
Vinesh Phogat set to compete in National Open Ranking Tournament (57kg)
May 6, 2026
Vinesh Phogat, preparing for a comeback after nearly 18 months, is set to compete in the National Open Ranking Tournament in the 57kg category.
WFI details trials schedule and categories
May 6, 2026
The women’s wrestling trials are scheduled for May 30 at Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, while freestyle and Greco-Roman trials are scheduled for May 31 at the SAI Regional Centre in Lucknow. The competition will cover 18 Olympic weight categories across the three formats.
WFI announces 2026 Asian Games trials eligibility rules
May 6, 2026
The Wrestling Federation of India announced that eligibility for the 2026 Asian Games wrestling trials is limited to medal winners from the 2025 Senior National Wrestling Championship, the 2026 Senior Federation Cup, and the Under-20 National Wrestling Championship, with past performance not considered.
ITA warns Vinesh Phogat over December 2025 whereabouts lapse
December 2025
The ITA warned after Vinesh Phogat missed an out-of-competition doping control test in Bengaluru in December 2025. Athletes in the testing pool must be available during a fixed one-hour slot for surprise testing, and the agency described the lapse as her first 'whereabouts failure' within 12 months. The ITA added that this would not be treated as a doping violation and would not stop her from competing in the upcoming Gonda tournament.