Year Ender 2024: Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification to Racism With Jasprit Bumrah, Top Sports Controversies in India

Add as a preferred source on Google

Year Ender 2024: From Jasprit Bumrah’s controversial 'primate’ comment to Vinesh Phogat's heartbreaking disqualification, Indian sports have seen their fair share of controversies that sparked debates and divided opinions nationwide.

Whether it’s administrative clashes, athlete bans, or public outcry, controversies often expose the fragile side of Indian sports. Some incidents shook fans, while others highlighted deeper structural problems demanding urgent solutions.

In 2024, several controversies rocked Indian sports, involving prominent figures and events. Hardik Pandya faced severe backlash from Mumbai Indians fans, PT Usha's leadership at the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) led to major infighting, and Indian football coach Igor Stimac's conflict with AIFF made waves.

From governance disputes to fan outrage, these incidents highlight deeper issues within Indian sports, ranging from administrative conflicts to player treatment and racism. Here are some of the most notable controversies in Indian sports this year.

#6. KL Rahul and Sanjiv Goenka IPL Controversy

During IPL 2024, former Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul found himself at the centre of controversy after a dismal team performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Following the heavy defeat, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen publicly criticising Rahul on live television, sparking rumours of a rift between the two.

Fans and analysts speculated that the incident reflected growing tensions within the franchise. Eventually, LSG released Rahul ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, where he was picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 14 crore.

#5. Anwar Ali Contract Controversy

Indian defender Anwar Ali was handed a four-month ban by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in September 2024 for 'unjustly’ terminating his contract with Mohun Bagan to join East Bengal. The AIFF also demanded a hefty compensation of ₹12.90 crore from Delhi FC and East Bengal.

However, after a Delhi High Court intervention, Anwar was cleared to play, with the AIFF’s suspension overturned. His return was marked by participation in the high-profile ISL Kolkata derby on October 19.

#4. Antim Panghal Deported From Paris Olympics

Indian wrestler Antim Panghal stirred controversy at the Paris 2024 Olympics when she attempted to sneak her sister into the athletes’ village using her accreditation card. The breach led to intervention from French authorities, prompting the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to send Panghal and her support staff back home.

Despite Panghal's claims of innocence, the incident embarrassed the Indian contingent and sparked disciplinary actions, adding to her fruitless Olympic campaign.

#3. Jasprit Bumrah Racism Controversy

During India’s Test series in Australia, former England cricketer Isa Guha caused uproar by referring to Jasprit Bumrah as a 'primate’ on live commentary. While Guha clarified that her comment was intended as praise, calling him the 'Most Valuable Primate’, the term sparked anger among Indian fans due to its racial connotations.

Guha issued a public apology, emphasising her high regard for Bumrah. However, the controversy underscored the sensitivity surrounding language and its implications in international sports.

#2. Hardik Pandya Booed by Mumbai Indians Fans

Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians as captain for IPL 2024 came under immense scrutiny after replacing fan-favourite Rohit Sharma. The decision triggered anger among MI supporters, who vocally expressed their discontent throughout the season. Hardik was relentlessly booed during Mumbai’s matches, both at home and away venues.

Mumbai Indians’ poor performance in IPL 2024, finishing last on the table, only worsened matters. Hardik’s struggles as captain contrasted sharply with Rohit Sharma's leadership legacy, which had delivered five IPL titles. Despite his key role in India’s T20 World Cup victory later, this controversy remains a defining moment of the year.

#1. Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Disqualification

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris 2024 Olympics after being found 100 grams overweight for the women's 50kg category just before her gold medal bout. After defeating top contenders, including defending Olympic champion Yui Susaki, Phogat was on the cusp of gold, only to see her dreams shattered at the mandatory weigh-in.

This disqualification ended her bid to become the first Indian woman to win an Olympic gold in wrestling. Despite an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the decision stood, leaving India reeling from a missed Olympic medal. A dejected Phogat soon announced her retirement, marking a tragic conclusion to her career.

Other Mentions

The Igor Stimac-AIFF row grabbed headlines as the Indian football coach was sacked following poor World Cup qualifying results, later alleging unpaid dues. PT Usha’s ongoing IOA tussle over CEO appointments and financial irregularities further tarnished the organisation’s image. Meanwhile, Bajrang Punia’s temporary ban due to disagreements with the wrestling federation sparked fresh controversy within Indian wrestling circles.