Wrestler Vinesh Phogat will not be considered for the Asian Games 2026 after being left out of the selection trials under the Wrestling Federation of India’s latest eligibility criteria.
As per the new rules, only medal winners from 2025 and 2026 competitions will be allowed to participate in the selection trials. This effectively rules Phogat out, as she has not competed in any professional event since her heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Phogat had earlier raised concerns that the Wrestling Federation of India was attempting to block her return to the domestic circuit. She claimed that the federation did not respond when she initially tried to register for the National Open Ranking Tournament.
“I am hoping to make a comeback at the National Open Ranking Tournament. The registration for it was open till April 30. However, when I tried to register, the portal says it is now closed,” she said.
After she went public with her concerns, the WFI processed her registration on the deadline day. WFI president Sanjay Singh denied any wrongdoing and said her registration had already been completed, though it was only created after her complaint surfaced.
Phogat also alleged that she faced similar issues ahead of the Federation Cup.
“I intended to compete there too, but the team selection criteria were changed at the last minute, so I couldn’t take part,” she said. “It feels like this is a deliberate attempt to stop me from competing, especially since this is an important tournament to remain in contention for the Asian Games and World Championship selection trials.”
The WFI’s latest release appears to reinforce her concerns. The federation has restricted eligibility to medal winners from select 2025 and 2026 events and clearly stated that past performances will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria for Asian Games Selection Trials
All medal winners of the 2025 Senior National Wrestling Championship held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat from December 12 to 14, 2025.
All medal winners of the 2026 Senior Federation Cup held in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh from February 12 to 14, 2026.
All medal winners of the Under 20 National Wrestling Championship held in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh from April 10 to 12, 2026.
The women’s wrestling trials will be held on May 30 at Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, while the freestyle and Greco Roman trials are scheduled for May 31 at the SAI Regional Centre in Lucknow.
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