Delhi High Court Approves Vinesh Phogat's Participation in Asian Games Trials

Court Ruling on Vinesh Phogat's Participation

The Delhi High Court has granted approval for renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat to compete in the upcoming selection trials for the Asian Games. The court criticized the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) selection policy, labeling it as exclusionary due to its failure to allow consideration for a prominent athlete like Phogat, who is returning from maternity leave.

A bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia mandated that the trials, scheduled for May 30-31, be recorded on video. Additionally, representatives from both the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) are required to be present as independent observers.

In its ruling dated May 22, which was made public on Saturday, the court stated, "The appellant shall be allowed to take part in the selection trials for the Asian Games, 2026, set for May 30 and 31, 2026."

The court highlighted that the existing policy and circular are inherently exclusionary, lacking the flexibility to consider exceptional athletes like Phogat, especially after a maternity break.

Furthermore, the court noted that the reasons outlined in the show-cause notice seemed premeditated and aimed at revisiting previously settled matters. It emphasized the importance of allowing Phogat to compete in the trials for the sake of fairness and the sport's integrity.

This decision came as a result of Phogat's appeal against a prior ruling from May 18, where a single-judge bench denied her immediate relief regarding her participation in the trials.

Phogat, a distinguished wrestler, faced disqualification from the 50-kg category finals at the Paris Olympics in August 2024 due to being 100 grams over the weight limit during the morning weigh-in.