Supreme Court Permits Vinesh Phogat to Compete in Asian Games 2026 Trials

The Supreme Court on Friday granted wrestler Vinesh Phogat permission to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games, offering a significant boost to the athlete amid an ongoing dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The apex court refused to stay an earlier Delhi High Court order that had cleared Phogat to take part in the trials scheduled for May 30 and 31.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court reportedly observed that Phogat had brought pride and recognition to the country through her achievements in international wrestling. The decision came after the WFI challenged the Delhi High Court’s ruling and opposed her participation in the trials.
Earlier, the Delhi High Court had strongly criticised the federation’s selection policy, particularly regarding athletes returning after maternity breaks. The court stated that motherhood should not become a barrier to sporting opportunities and observed that women athletes must not be unfairly disadvantaged because of maternity leave. The High Court ruled that Phogat’s absence from competition during that period could not be treated as a ground for exclusion.
To ensure fairness in the selection process, the court also directed that the trials should be conducted under strict supervision. Independent observers from the Sports Authority of India and the Indian Olympic Association were asked to oversee the event, while the entire process would reportedly be video-recorded for transparency.
Phogat’s return to competitive wrestling has drawn major public attention since her retirement announcement following the 2024 Paris Olympics. She had faced heartbreak at the Games after being disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle final for exceeding the weight limit by a narrow margin.