WFI Chief Responds to Vinesh Phogat's Controversial Comeback Attempt

WFI Chief's Stance on Vinesh Phogat's Participation

Sanjay Singh, the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding Vinesh Phogat's attempt to return to wrestling. Phogat, a three-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, was barred from competing in a ranking event in Gonda, where she had hoped to re-enter the sport after announcing her comeback. Singh stated that Phogat should not have been present at the event, but after her arrival, she received an explanation from WFI officials regarding her situation. He indicated that her chances of participating in the Asian Games selection trials on May 31 are slim. “Vinesh had no reason to be here since she was prohibited. However, upon her arrival in Gonda, the WFI informed her about the show cause notice issued to her. She mentioned that she would provide a detailed response. The disciplinary committee will review her case within ten days. Unfortunately, she will not be able to participate in the Asian Games trials as they are scheduled for May 30,” Singh remarked during an interview with a media outlet.

Singh further emphasized that the WFI would not make exceptions for any athlete, regardless of their fame. He cited the example of Aman Sehrawat, a bronze medalist at the Paris Olympics, who faced suspension for not meeting weight requirements during the World Championships in 2025. “It’s not about the stature of the wrestler; no one is above the WFI's regulations. We cannot alter rules for anyone, as it would set a dangerous precedent. Every wrestler must adhere to the same standards, and we conveyed this to Vinesh,” Singh stated.

Additionally, Singh clarified the reasons behind the delayed notice to Phogat, confirming that she had registered on time for the competition. However, the WFI identified several issues during their verification process. He dismissed any claims of security concerns for Phogat in Gonda, asserting that she was safe during her visit. “Vinesh did register on time. The WFI reviewed all participant entries and found a few issues that needed clarification. We consulted our legal team before issuing the notice. There is no conspiracy involved. Furthermore, there are no safety issues for Vinesh in Gonda. She toured the entire college campus without incident. To suggest that female wrestlers are unsafe here is inaccurate. Women wrestlers from across the nation have come to Gonda, and they are all secure. I assured Vinesh of her safety, and she left without any problems,” Singh added.

For context, Gonda is the home region of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, who has faced allegations of sexual harassment from multiple wrestlers, sparking significant protests from prominent Indian athletes.

The Ongoing Controversy

The WFI issued a show-cause notice to Vinesh, declaring her ineligible to compete until June 2026 due to violations of anti-doping protocols. In response, Phogat took to social media to share evidence that the International Testing Agency has cleared her to compete starting January 1, 2026. She accused the WFI of conspiring against her, a claim that Singh has denied.