The Supreme Court of India has cleared wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games.
This ruling resolves a legal battle over athlete eligibility and ensures Phogat can compete for a spot on the national team. The decision removes a significant administrative hurdle for one of India's most prominent wrestlers as she seeks a place in the 53 kg category [1].
A bench consisting of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe issued the order on May 22, 2024 [2]. The court rejected a plea filed by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), which had sought to block Phogat from competing in the specific weight class [1].
By dismissing the WFI's challenge, the Supreme Court upheld a previous order from the Delhi High Court that had already permitted her participation [1]. The selection trials are scheduled to take place in Delhi [3].
The dispute centered on whether Phogat met the necessary criteria to enter the 53 kg division [1]. The WFI's attempt to prevent her entry was viewed as a critical barrier to her competitive prospects for the upcoming games. With the court's intervention, the federation must now allow her to undergo the standard trial process alongside other contenders.
Phogat has been a central figure in Indian wrestling, often navigating complex relationships with the sport's governing body. This legal victory ensures that her eligibility is decided on the mat rather than in a courtroom.
“The Supreme Court cleared Vinesh Phogat to take part in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games.”
The ruling underscores the judiciary's role in mediating disputes between high-profile athletes and national sports federations in India. By upholding the Delhi High Court's decision, the Supreme Court prevents the WFI from using administrative challenges to exclude specific athletes from international competition, ensuring that selection is based on athletic performance during the Delhi trials.
