Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been stopped from competing in the Senior Open Ranking Series in Gonda after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) issued her a show-cause notice questioning her eligibility.
The decision comes as Phogat attempts a comeback to competitive wrestling after previously stepping away from the sport. The WFI says she has not completed the required formalities under anti-doping and return-to-competition rules, which include a mandatory waiting period before athletes can re-enter official events.
According to the federation, she is not eligible to compete in domestic tournaments until late June 2026. Officials claim the rules were not fully followed during her return process.
Phogat has strongly disagreed with the decision. She says she had informed the authorities in advance and believes she is allowed to compete. She also responded to the notice, but the WFI has reportedly not accepted her explanation.
Despite the dispute, she reached the Gonda venue and insisted she should be allowed to wrestle. However, the federation maintained its stand, effectively blocking her participation.
The incident has added to ongoing tensions between the WFI and several top Indian wrestlers over selection rules and administration decisions.
The Gonda tournament is an important ranking event for athletes aiming for national selection, making the decision a significant setback for Phogat’s comeback plans.
The matter is now expected to go through official review channels, leaving her immediate return to competition uncertain.
