Vinesh Phogat Fears Come True as Comeback Plans Hit With New WFI Eligibility Rules

Vinesh Phogat could miss out on the Asian Games 2026 selection trials after the Wrestling Federation of India introduced new eligibility criteria that effectively rules her out of contention.

The latest development comes months after Phogat publicly alleged that the federation was attempting to block her return to competitive wrestling following her devastating disqualification at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Why Vinesh Phogat is now ineligible for Asian Games trials

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) announced that only medal winners from select domestic competitions held in 2025 and 2026 will be eligible for the upcoming Asian Games selection trials.

Under the revised rules, wrestlers must have won medals in at least one of the following tournaments:

• 2025 Senior National Wrestling Championship in Ahmedabad
• 2026 Senior Federation Cup in Ghaziabad
• 2026 Under-20 National Wrestling Championship in Bhilai

Since Phogat has not competed in any professional event since the Paris Olympics controversy in 2024, she does not meet the federation's latest qualification standards.

The women's wrestling trials are scheduled for May 30 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi.

Vinesh Phogat had earlier accused WFI of blocking her comeback

The decision has reignited controversy around Phogat's relationship with the federation.

Earlier this year, the former world championship medallist claimed that WFI was deliberately creating obstacles to prevent her from returning to domestic competition.

Speaking about the National Open Ranking Tournament, Phogat had alleged that the registration portal appeared closed when she attempted to enter before the deadline.

"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 had said.

After her comments became public, WFI processed her registration on the final day.

However, Phogat maintained that similar issues emerged ahead of the Federation Cup as well.

Federation Cup controversy added to tensions

According to Phogat, changes to the selection process ahead of the Federation Cup also affected her participation chances.

"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 federation, meanwhile, denied wrongdoing. WFI president Sanjay Singh insisted that her registration had already been processed and dismissed suggestions of bias.

Paris Olympics fallout continues to impact Vinesh Phogat

Phogat has not returned to competitive wrestling since her heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics in 2024.

One of India's biggest medal hopes at the Games, she was disqualified before the gold medal bout after reportedly failing to meet the required weight limit despite qualifying for the final.

The incident triggered widespread emotional reactions across Indian sport and politics, with Phogat later stepping away from active competition for an extended period.

Her latest exclusion from Asian Games selection trials now raises fresh doubts over whether she will be able to stage a full international comeback before the next Olympic cycle.

Why WFI's decision is controversial

The federation's move has already triggered debate within Indian wrestling circles.

Critics argue that restricting eligibility only to recent domestic medallists disproportionately affects experienced wrestlers attempting comebacks after injuries, breaks or major tournament setbacks.

Supporters of the move, however, believe the policy ensures active wrestlers remain part of the selection system and prevents direct entries based purely on reputation or past success.

For now, the updated criteria leave Vinesh Phogat outside the Asian Games qualification pathway unless the federation revises its rules or grants exceptions in the coming weeks.