In a surprising administrative error, suspended Indian wrestler Reetika Hooda was briefly and incorrectly included in the prestigious Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) list before being promptly removed. The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has confirmed the mistake, attributing it to an inadvertent inclusion.
The Erroneous Inclusion and Swift Correction
The incident came to light when Reetika Hooda's name appeared on the TOPS list despite her current suspension from the sport. When contacted for clarification, an official from the Sports Authority of India (SAI), who preferred to remain anonymous, provided a clear explanation. The official stated that Hooda's inclusion was purely accidental and has since been rectified.
"Her name was included in the list by mistake and has now been dropped," the SAI official confirmed. This statement directly addresses the confusion surrounding the wrestler's temporary presence on the list meant for India's top Olympic prospects. The news was first reported on 01 January 2026.
Context of Reetika Hooda's Suspension
This administrative slip-up is particularly notable given Reetika Hooda's current status in Indian wrestling. The athlete is serving a suspension, which makes her ineligible for the TOPS program. The scheme is designed to provide comprehensive support to athletes with the highest potential to win medals at the Olympic Games.
The TOPS list is a carefully curated roster, and inclusion signifies an athlete's standing as a prime contender for future Olympic glory. Its management falls under the purview of the Sports Authority of India, which oversees funding, training, and other logistical support for the selected individuals.
Implications and Transparency in Sports Administration
This episode raises questions about the verification processes involved in maintaining such critical lists. While SAI moved quickly to correct the record, the error highlights the need for stringent checks to maintain the integrity of flagship programs like TOPS.
For Reetika Hooda, the mistaken inclusion and subsequent removal add another layer to her ongoing challenges within the sport. It underscores the finality of her suspension in the eyes of the sports governing body, at least for the time being. The swift clarification from SAI indicates an effort to maintain transparency, even when dealing with internal errors.
The focus now returns to the official members of the TOPS list and their preparations, while this incident serves as a reminder of the precise administration required in high-stakes sports management.
