Vinesh Phogat's Controversial Trials: Tensions Rise with WFI Ahead of Asian Games

Tensions between Vinesh Phogat and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) escalated during the Asian Games trials, leading to confrontations over weight categories and match officiating. After being initially assigned to the 50kg category, Vinesh challenged the WFI's decision, resulting in her participation in the 53kg category. The trials were marked by heated exchanges, controversial officiating, and dramatic match outcomes, culminating in a call for a review of the final bout. This ongoing conflict highlights the intense pressure and scrutiny faced by athletes in competitive sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 31, 2026, 04:07 IST

Conflict Erupts at Asian Games Trials

Since the wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar in January 2023, tensions between Vinesh Phogat and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) have been palpable. This past Saturday was no different. Early in the morning, as the trials for the Asian Games approached, Vinesh was informed by referees and judges during the weigh-in that she was required to compete in the 50kg weight class. The WFI insisted on this category based on a recent Delhi High Court ruling, which allowed her to participate as a prominent Olympian. They argued that since her last Olympic performance was in the 50kg category in Paris 2024, she was restricted to that weight class.

Vinesh immediately confronted WFI president Sanjay Singh, questioning the rationale behind this unexpected decision. "Why am I listed for the 50kg category? The Delhi High Court has permitted me to compete in the trials," she challenged Singh.

"How can the federation dictate my weight class? It should be the wrestler's choice, not the federation's. I sense a double game being played here," she added.

In response, Singh stated that the federation was merely adhering to the court's directive. "You are recognized as an iconic athlete. Your last competition was in the 50kg category. If you possess any court documentation permitting you to compete in the 53kg category, present it, and we will accommodate you," he replied.

Shortly thereafter, Singh permitted her to compete in the 53kg category. Vinesh weighed in at 53.9kg and found her name on the draw list. However, the drama continued as she raised concerns about the draw. Antim Panghal, a two-time World Championships medallist and a significant rival, received a more favorable draw, while Vinesh was matched against Meenakshi, who ultimately defeated her in the semifinals, and Nishu, who posed a serious challenge in the quarterfinals.

Vinesh began her campaign with a solid 7-1 victory over Jyoti, but her second match against Nishu was fraught with tension. Initially trailing 0-5, Vinesh executed a four-point throw to narrow the gap to 4-5. Her husband and coach, Somvir Rathee, challenged the referee's decision, believing Vinesh had pinned Nishu. He vocally protested on the mat, insisting the referee's call was incorrect.

The atmosphere was electric, with both sides celebrating each point. As Nishu surged to a 5-0 lead, supporters of the WFI cheered loudly, while Vinesh's fans erupted in joy with her comeback points. As she neared victory, one enthusiastic supporter began dancing in front of the WFI officials, prompting his removal from the scene.

The WFI president and his team, including secretary general Jay Prakash, confronted the unruly crowd that threatened to disrupt the match. During the chaos, the secretary general faced verbal abuse.

The semifinal match was equally tumultuous. Meenakshi led 3-1 when Somvir requested a review after Vinesh was awarded only one point. In frustration, he stepped onto the mat but later withdrew the challenge. Meenakshi's coaches accused him of trying to disrupt their momentum. With Vinesh scoring two points for a takedown, the match was tightly contested at 3-4. However, Meenakshi countered with a two-point move, extending her lead to 6-3. A successful challenge from Vinesh at the end resulted in a 4-6 loss.

After the match, Vinesh expressed her dissatisfaction with the officiating, declaring, "I will return to the mat again," while pointing at the WFI president.

The final in the 53kg category between Antim and Meenakshi was also marred by controversy. Meenakshi, declared the loser, protested by sitting on the mat, bleeding. After several minutes of chaos, her corner urged her to withdraw, leading her to confront the mat chairman and hurl insults.

She received a red card, resulting in immediate disqualification. Despite her aggressive approach during the match, her family protested against the referee's decisions, claiming unfair passivity and caution points were awarded against her. The WFI president announced a comprehensive review of the match, stating, "We will investigate the entire match and take action against the referee if any errors are found."