The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision allowing wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the Asian Games 2026. The matter is now scheduled for hearing before the Supreme Court bench.
The dispute, now widely referred to as the Vinesh Phogat trials case, has brought renewed attention to selection policies and athlete eligibility rules in Indian wrestling.
Supreme Court to Hear Vinesh Phogat Trials Case on WFI Petition
In the ongoing Vinesh Phogat trials case, the WFI has challenged the Delhi High Court order dated May 22, which permitted Phogat to take part in the upcoming selection trials scheduled for May 30–31.
The High Court had observed that the existing selection policy appeared restrictive and did not provide flexibility to consider experienced athletes like Phogat, who is returning to competition after a maternity break.
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High Court Guidelines Central to Vinesh Phogat Trials Case
The Vinesh Phogat trials case originated after the Delhi High Court directed that the selection trials must be conducted in a transparent manner. The court ordered that all trials be video-recorded by the WFI to ensure fairness.
It also directed that independent observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) be present during the trials to maintain transparency in the process.
WFI Questions Selection Policy in Vinesh Phogat Trials Case
In its appeal, the federation in the Vinesh Phogat trials case has raised concerns over judicial interference in sports administration. It argued that selection decisions should remain within the sporting body’s jurisdiction.
The case is expected to have wider implications on how returning athletes are treated under national selection policies.
The Vinesh Phogat trials case continues to be a significant legal and sporting development in India. With the Supreme Court set to hear the matter, the outcome could influence future athlete selection procedures and governance in Indian sports.