Vinesh Phogat Faces WFI Show Cause Notice Amid Controversy

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat is embroiled in controversy after the Wrestling Federation of India issued a show cause notice accusing her of misconduct and anti-doping violations. This notice has rendered her ineligible for the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament 2026 in Gonda. Following her announcement of a comeback after an 18-month hiatus, Vinesh's plans are now in jeopardy. The situation is further complicated by her involvement in sexual harassment complaints against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Read on to discover the details of the allegations and their implications for her wrestling career.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 10, 2026, 01:39 IST

Tensions Rise Between WFI and Vinesh Phogat

In light of escalating conflicts between the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and wrestler Vinesh Phogat, the athlete shared a mysterious message on social media. This followed the federation's issuance of a show cause notice on Saturday, which accused the three-time Olympian of various acts of misconduct and violations related to anti-doping regulations. Consequently, she has been declared ineligible to participate in the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament 2026 scheduled in Gonda.

Vinesh Phogat's Mysterious Social Media Post

On X, Vinesh expressed, "Life is caught in some deep whirlpool's midst. The world seeks flaws in my character, persists. Life has always held your head held high. No sword has the power to make it bow."

WFI's Allegations Against Phogat

The WFI's comprehensive 15-page notice outlined four significant allegations against Vinesh. These include her failure to meet weight requirements for the 2024 Paris Olympics, purported anti-doping violations, breaches of return-to-competition protocols after her retirement, and infractions during selection trials conducted in March 2024. Additionally, the federation has prohibited her from competing in any sanctioned events until at least June 26.

Link to Brij Bhushan Case

Importantly, the show cause notice from WFI was issued after Vinesh disclosed that she is among six female wrestlers who lodged sexual harassment complaints against the former WFI president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She raised concerns regarding the lack of action taken against him and her safety in Gonda, which is his hometown.

Phogat's Comeback Plans Disrupted

Vinesh's announcement about her registration for the 2026 Senior Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, set for May 10 to May 12, came just before the notice. She was looking forward to making her return to professional wrestling at this event. After retiring in 2024, Vinesh declared her comeback in December 2025, following an 18-month break to pursue her Olympic aspirations.