Vinesh Phogat Faces Notice Ahead of National Open Ranking Tournament

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been issued a notice by the International Testing Agency for missing a doping test ahead of the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. This incident marks her first violation of residence-related rules in the past year. The notice serves as a warning, and if she fails to appeal within seven days, it will be recorded officially. Vinesh's return to competitive wrestling comes after a hiatus following her disqualification at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As she prepares for the tournament, concerns about her compliance and potential bias from referees have surfaced, making this a pivotal moment in her career.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 5, 2026, 21:45 IST

Notice Issued for Missed Doping Test

Before the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, wrestler Vinesh Phogat has received a notice from the International Testing Agency (ITA) regarding her absence from a doping test on December 18, 2025. This marks the first instance in the past year where she has violated the residence-related rules. In a letter dated May 4, 2026, the ITA informed Vinesh that the missed test has been officially recorded following a review of her explanation provided on January 19, 2026.

Previous Correspondence Mentioned

The notice references a prior letter sent on January 5, 2026, which raised concerns about her absence from the test and requested a response from Vinesh. While this notice does not constitute a violation of anti-doping regulations, it serves as a warning under the residence-related rules, aimed at ensuring athletes are available for unannounced doping tests at all times.

Potential Two-Year Ban

According to the regulations set by United World Wrestling and the World Anti-Doping Agency, failing to be present for testing three times within a year or not updating residence information can be considered a violation of anti-doping rules. Such violations could lead to a ban of up to two years.

Incident on December 18, 2025

The ITA reported that on December 18, 2025, a doping control officer was unable to locate Vinesh during her scheduled 60-minute testing window at the designated location. Under anti-doping rules, athletes in the 'registered testing pool' must provide a one-hour window each day between 6 AM and 11 PM during which they are available for testing without prior notice. However, the ITA acknowledged that Vinesh was participating in the Haryana Assembly's first winter session that day.

Failure to Update Residence Information

Vinesh had traveled from Bengaluru to Chandigarh, disrupting her usual routine. The agency also considered that she had recently welcomed a child, adding to her personal responsibilities. During the testing period, Vinesh reportedly cooperated fully and informed the doping control officer of her presence in Chandigarh for meetings. Nevertheless, the ITA concluded that despite her schedule changes, she failed to update her residence information in a timely manner.

Details of the Notice

The agency stated that Vinesh did not utilize alternative methods such as SMS, email, or mobile apps to inform about her location change on or before December 18. The notice indicated, 'Given the circumstances, the ITA believes you have not demonstrated that this oversight was without negligence or your involvement.'

Seven Days to Respond

Ultimately, it was decided that the missed test would be recorded. The ITA clarified that this is the first instance of Vinesh failing to provide location information within 12 months. She has been given seven days from May 4 to appeal the decision if she believes the missed test was not due to her negligence.

Vinesh's Return to Wrestling

If she does not appeal, this decision will be final. This development comes a few months after Vinesh announced her return to competitive wrestling in December 2025, following her retirement after the 2024 Paris Olympics due to disqualification for weight issues in the women's 50 kg final. Subsequently, she re-registered in the RTP.

Participation in National Open Ranking Tournament

The National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda is a significant event for top athletes, who must undergo strict doping tests even when not competing. This tournament marks Vinesh's first return to competition. She had previously accused the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of attempting to prevent her participation, and she expressed concerns about potential bias from referees.

About the ITA

The WFI president, Sanjay Singh, assured this Olympian of full support and opportunities to compete. The ITA is responsible for managing anti-doping programs at the Olympics and other major sporting events, operating from Lausanne and overseeing the anti-doping programs of nearly 50 international sports federations.

Vinesh's Claims of Victimization

Vinesh Phogat is set to return to wrestling after 20 months. Ahead of a crucial ranking tournament in Gonda, she claimed to be one of the six wrestlers who filed sexual harassment complaints against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.