Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on Saturday issued a show-cause notice to Vinesh Phogat, accusing her of indiscipline and violations of anti-doping regulations. The federation has also declared her ineligible to participate in domestic tournaments until June 26, 2026.
According to a report by Press Trust of India (PTI), the action was taken after Vinesh allegedly failed to comply with the United World Wrestling (UWW) anti-doping rule that requires athletes returning from retirement to complete a six-month notice period before competing in tournaments.
WFI Serves 15-Page Notice
The WFI has reportedly handed Vinesh a detailed 15-page notice, stating that her conduct has caused “serious embarrassment at the national level” and negatively affected the image of Indian wrestling. The notice accuses her of violating the WFI constitution, UWW international wrestling regulations, and anti-doping rules.
The federation has sought her response on four separate allegations, including her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. Vinesh was disqualified ahead of the final bout after her weight exceeded the permissible limit, costing her a medal opportunity.
Apart from that incident, WFI has also questioned her over allegedly failing to provide whereabouts information under anti-doping regulations and competing in two weight categories during the March 2024 trials.
Barred From Domestic Competitions
The federation specifically clarified that Vinesh will not be allowed to participate in any domestic tournaments before June 26. This includes the National Open Ranking Tournament scheduled to be held in Gonda from May 10 to 12, which was being viewed as her comeback event.
In the notice, WFI stated that it wants to ensure that no anti-doping rule violation on her part affects the federation’s reputation in upcoming competitions.
Vinesh has been given 14 days to submit her reply to the notice.
