The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on Saturday barred star wrestler Vinesh Phogat from competing in the Senior Open Ranking Series event in Gonda beginning May 10, issuing her a 15-page show cause notice on multiple disciplinary and anti-doping related charges. This effectively delays her return to international wrestling nearly 20 months after her retirement following the Paris Olympics.
Ineligibility Period
The federation stated that Vinesh would remain ineligible to compete in any WFI competitions and events until May 26, 2026, citing violations linked to retirement and return-to-competition regulations under United World Wrestling (UWW) rules.
Allegations Against Vinesh
In its notice, the WFI accused the wrestler of several breaches, including violation of whereabouts submission requirements under UWW Anti-Doping Rules 2015, acts of indiscipline, and conduct prejudicial to the interest of the sport of wrestling and the WFI. Among the allegations were her failure to make weight at the Paris Olympics, which led to her disqualification, alleged violations of the WFI constitution, anti-doping rule violations arising from whereabouts failures, and participation in two weight categories (50kg and 53kg) during the selection trials held on March 11, 2024 at NIS Patiala, allegedly in violation of UWW competition rules. The federation also referred to a recorded missed dope test dated December 18, 2025, which was notified by the International Testing Agency.
WFI Statement
The WFI stated: "Wrestling Federation of India issues show cause notice to Vinesh Phogat. She has been show caused on several counts including for breach of whereabouts submission requirements of United World Wrestling and Article 5.7 of the UWW Anti-Doping Rules 2015 governing retirement and return to competition, grave acts of indiscipline and conduct prejudicial to the interest of the sport of wrestling and the WFI." The federation further said that based on records, public reports, the reasoned Award of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) Ad hoc division dated 14/16 August 2024, and correspondence on record, the WFI has reason to believe, prima facie, that she has committed acts and omissions seriously prejudicial to the discipline, image, reputation, and interests of WFI, the Indian wrestling fraternity, and the nation, constituting violations of the WFI constitution, the UWW International wrestling rules, and the National Anti-Doping Rules 2021.
Notice and Response
The notice asked Vinesh to explain within 14 days from May 9, 2026 why disciplinary action should not be initiated against her. It added that pending submission and consideration of her reply, based on her letter dated December 12, 2025, the minimum requirement of six months period has not yet expired, and consequently, she shall not be eligible to participate in any WFI competitions and events until May 26, 2026, including the Senior Open Ranking Series Tournament at Nandini Nagar, Gonda from May 10-12 and any other forthcoming national ranking, selection, and international competitions, in the wider interest of the sport and the federation.
Setback for Comeback
The development comes as a major setback for Vinesh, who had been eyeing a competitive comeback after announcing her retirement in the aftermath of her dramatic disqualification at the Paris Olympics despite reaching the women's 50kg final. Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL Schedule, check the IPL Points Table, and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.
