The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has taken its case to the Supreme Court, contesting a recent ruling by the Delhi High Court that permits grappler Vinesh Phogat to compete in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games. The WFI argues that this decision undermines its established selection framework.
A hearing is set for Friday, May 28, 2026, before a bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe. The controversy began on May 22, when a Division Bench of the High Court ruled in favor of Phogat's participation, citing the WFI's selection policy as exclusionary. The court emphasized that the policy lacked the necessary discretion to accommodate a prominent athlete like Phogat, who is returning to competition after a maternity break.
In response to the High Court's decision, the WFI has raised concerns about the integrity of the selection process. The upcoming trials, scheduled for May 30-31, will be closely monitored; the WFI is required to video record the events, with independent observers from both the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) present to ensure transparency.
Phogat, who has expressed her eagerness to compete, maintains that she is eligible for the trials. However, the WFI contends that her response to their inquiries was incomplete, further complicating the situation as the trials approach.
