Delhi High Court Challenges WFI's Decision on Vinesh Phogat's Eligibility
High Court pulls up WFI over decision to declare Vinesh Phogat ineligible
Image: Sport Star The Hindu
The Delhi High Court criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for declaring Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic events, urging the Centre to form an expert panel to evaluate her situation. The court emphasized the importance of allowing Phogat to participate in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials, highlighting that motherhood should not hinder her athletic career.
- 01The Delhi High Court's bench included Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia.
- 02Phogat is seeking to return from a maternity leave after giving birth in July 2025.
- 03The WFI's decision to declare her ineligible is linked to anti-doping rules requiring a six-month notice period for returning athletes.
- 04Vinesh Phogat had previously protested against alleged sexual harassment by the WFI's former president.
- 05The court expressed that the change in eligibility criteria appears to target Phogat specifically.
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The Delhi High Court has taken a firm stance against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) regarding its recent decision to declare celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic competitions. The court, led by Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, has directed the Centre to establish an expert panel to assess Phogat's eligibility, particularly as she seeks to return to the sport after a maternity break. The bench criticized the WFI for deviating from previous practices that allowed renowned athletes to participate, emphasizing that motherhood should not be a disadvantage for female athletes. Phogat's senior counsel argued that the WFI's actions seem to be a targeted effort to exclude her from competition, particularly in light of her past involvement in protests against the federation's former president over allegations of sexual harassment. The court has highlighted the need for fair treatment in sports and plans to revisit the case to ensure Phogat's participation in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials.
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The court's decision could pave the way for Vinesh Phogat to compete again, impacting her career and the representation of female athletes in Indian wrestling.
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