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Vinesh Phogat has suffered another major setback in her comeback bid after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) issued her a detailed show-cause notice over alleged indiscipline and anti-doping rule violations. The federation has also declared the star wrestler ineligible to participate in domestic competitions until June 26, 2026.
The development comes as a significant blow for the two-time World Championship medallist, who was targeting a return to competitive wrestling at the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda beginning Sunday.
Also Read: WADA regulation sparks fresh uncertainty over Vinesh Phogat’s participation in comeback event
WFI declares Vinesh ineligible for domestic competitions
According to reports, the Wrestling Federation of India issued a 15-page notice accusing Vinesh Phogat of violating multiple federation and international wrestling regulations following her retirement and comeback process.
The WFI stated that Vinesh failed to complete the mandatory six-month notice period required under the United World Wrestling anti-doping regulations for athletes attempting to return from retirement.
As a result, the federation ruled that she cannot compete in domestic events until June 26, 2026.
Vinesh had initially announced her retirement from wrestling after her heartbreaking disqualification at the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, she later expressed her desire to return to competitive wrestling and had entered the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in the 57kg category.
The WFI also alleged that her conduct during the Paris Olympics controversy caused "lasting damage to the reputation of Indian wrestling."
According to the notice, the federation believes her actions violated provisions under the WFI Constitution, UWW International Wrestling Rules, and anti-doping regulations.
Also Read: Vinesh Phogat’s Asian Games 2026 dreams dashed after WFI latest eligibility criteria
Paris Olympics controversy continues to impact Vinesh’s comeback
Vinesh Phogat’s wrestling future has remained uncertain ever since her dramatic disqualification at the Paris Olympics in 2024. The Indian wrestler had reached the women’s 50kg final before being ruled ineligible for exceeding the weight limit during the weigh-in process.
The incident sparked widespread debate across the Indian sporting community and eventually led to Vinesh announcing her retirement from the sport.
Despite hinting at a comeback later, her path back into competitive wrestling has faced repeated obstacles. Earlier reports had already suggested that the Wrestling Federation of India’s revised eligibility rules for major events, including the 2026 Asian Games trials, would make it difficult for her to return without recent competitive results.
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