Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, whom the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) deemed ineligible for return to the sport under Rule 5.6.1 of WADA regulations a few days ago, contested her exclusion from domestic competitions on Monday. She asserted that both the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Testing Agency (ITA) had greenlighted her participation from January 1, 2026. 

Dispute ensues at National Tournament

The former World Championships medalist arrived to compete in a National Open Ranking Tournament, but was denied entry by the federation. The body cited ongoing disciplinary proceedings against her, following which she met WFI President Sanjay Singh to address her grievance. 

Phogat maintained that the decision contradicts international clearances already granted to her, and raised questions over WFI’s interpretation of rules. 

“Only a missed filing, no violation”: Phogat

Phogat tried to clear the air on the allegations levelled against her by WFI, saying that she had not committed any anti-doping offence, but had only missed a single ‘whereabouts’ filing. Notably, the athletes need to update their exact location for dope test purposes. 

She elaborated her stance, saying that the lapse occurred during a challenging period, when she became a mother and was busy with an Assembly session. She, however, realised the shortcoming and apologised to the WADA, post which, she claims WADA issued her a clean chit. 

“Had there been any violation, the Indian authorities would have issued a notice and imposed a ban,” she said while addressing media-persons, underscoring that no such action was taken. 

Phogat reveals she underwent 2 doping tests

Further in her statements, she revealed that she underwent two doping tests even after receiving clearance and returned negative in both instances. She emphasised her consistent record of clean sport, claiming she has never sought to gain an unfair advantage. Moreover, she also shared a letter from the ITA dated July 3, 2025, which mentions she is eligible to resume competition as 2026 commenced.

The ITA, which is entrusted with managing the anti-doping programme for United World Wrestling, plays a pivotal role in overseeing compliance to the norms at a global level. 

WFI maintains earlier stance

Despite the international clearance, the WFI has refused to change its stance, asserting that Phogat still stands ineligible for domestic competitions until June 26 this year, as per applicable rules. The federation released an official statement, underlining that it had ensured her safety and had permitted her to interact freely with the media, reiterating that all athletes are treated equally. 

Phogat raises call for fair opportunity

Amid the developments, Phogat has urged the authorities to grant her a fair chance to compete, insisting that selection should ultimately be decided on merit on the mat. She said, “If I am not even allowed to compete, how will it be decided who deserves to represent the country?”