After restricting Vinesh Phogat to 50kg, WFI reverses stand and allows her to compete in 53kg Asian Games trials

Vinesh Phogat challenged the decision and accused the federation of discriminating against her.

Updated on: May 30, 2026, 11:58:03 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Vinesh Phogat has been allowed by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to participate in the 53kg category at the Asian Games 2026 selection trials in New Delhi on Sunday. Initially, the WFI restricted her participation to the 50kg division.

Vinesh Phogat during her training after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) allowed her to compete in the women's 53kg selection category. (PTI)

During the official weigh-in on Saturday morning, she was informed that she would be allowed to participate only in the 50kg category, as she had featured in that weight class in her last four international events, including the Paris Olympics.

Also Read: SC questions Vinesh Phogat for missing doping test, allows wrestler to participate in Asian Games selection trials

She challenged the decision and accused the federation of discriminating against her.

Speaking to PTI, WFI president Sanjay Singh said, "We allowed her after she threw accusations and asked the officials to take her weight."

"We do not want to discriminate anyone. She did not inform which category she wants to compete and still letting her."

In a statement, the WFI said, "The weigh-in for all weight categories, including the Women's 53kg category, was conducted at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi, as per the approved schedule for the Asian Games selection trials. All eligible wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, reported for the weigh-in and completed the requisite formalities."

"Accordingly, all eligible wrestlers who fulfilled the prescribed requirements have been cleared to participate in the selection trials, which are scheduled to commence shortly", it added.

Also, Aditi Chauhan from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and MM Somaiya from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) are present as observers at the Indira Gandhi Stadium during the trials. WFI chief Singh is also present.

Earlier on Friday, although the Supreme Court granted her interim relief, but it also sought her response to the petition filed by the WFI challenging her participation in the trials. The matter is scheduled to be heard next on Monday, June 1.

The Supreme Court said, "If anybody else, it would have been on a different footing. She's made the country proud."

On May 22, the Delhi High Court directed WFI to allow her to participate in the trials. The HC also ordered that her trials be recorded on video and conducted under the supervision of independent observers appointed to ensure transparency.

The SC also questioned the manner in which the Delhi HC dealt with the matter. The court also asked for her response to the petition filed by the WFI challenging her participation in the trials.

Earlier, Phogat had challenged the WFI's Asian Games Selection Policy dated February 25, 2026 and a subsequent circular dated May 6, 2026, which restricted eligibility for the selection trials to medal winners from specified domestic tournaments conducted in 2025 and 2026.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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