Supreme Court Clears Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games Trials, Upholds Delhi High Court Order

In a significant development for Indian wrestling, the Supreme Court on Friday declined to interfere with a Delhi High Court order, thereby permitting Olympian Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the Asian Games 2026. The decision, delivered by a bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe, paves the way for the celebrated wrestler to compete in the trials scheduled for May 30-31. Delhi High Court Overrules WFI, Clears Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games 2026 Trials.

The ruling came as the apex court heard a Special Leave Petition filed by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), which had challenged the Delhi High Court's earlier directive allowing Phogat to compete. Despite upholding the High Court's decision, the Supreme Court expressed reservations about the High Court's approach and raised pertinent questions regarding Phogat's compliance with anti-doping regulations, specifically noting missed doping tests.

Legal Battle and High Court's Stance

The legal dispute began after the WFI had initially challenged Phogat's eligibility for the trials, citing various grounds, including a mandatory six-month notice requirement for athletes returning from a sabbatical, linked to anti-doping rules. The Delhi High Court, on May 22, had strongly criticised the WFI's selection policy, deeming it 'exclusionary' and unfair, particularly towards athletes returning from maternity leave. The High Court had directed that Phogat be allowed to participate in the trials, emphasising that motherhood and maternity-related absence should not be grounds for exclusion from competitive sports. It also mandated video recording of the trials and the presence of independent observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to ensure transparency.

Supreme Court's Concerns on Doping Compliance

While refusing to stay the High Court's order, the Supreme Court bench, led by Justice Narasimha, highlighted 'two disturbing aspects' during the hearing. The court pointed out that records indicated Phogat had missed a doping test, which it termed a "serious lapse" requiring explanation. Justice Narasimha referenced an International Tribunal for Arbitration (ITA) order from May 4, which recorded the athlete's response regarding her unavailability for the test. 'When an ITA requirement is missed and there is a disqualification at international level, there are clear consequences,'Justice Narasimha remarked, stressing that international norms must be followed. Senior advocate Madhavi Divan, representing Phogat, argued that the matter was linked to her recent motherhood and sought permission for her to compete, subject to the outcome of the case. Vinesh Phogat Reveals She is Among Six Victims in Brij Bhushan Sexual Harassment Case.

Implications for Vinesh Phogat and Sporting Integrity

The Supreme Court's decision ensures Vinesh Phogat's immediate participation in the crucial Asian Games trials, offering a significant reprieve to the wrestler who has brought laurels to the country. However, the court's strong observations regarding missed doping tests underscore the ongoing scrutiny on athlete compliance with anti-doping regulations and the balance between individual circumstances and sporting integrity.

The bench stated that while Phogat is an 'excellent wrestler' who has 'made the country proud,' the 'country comes first," emphasising the importance of adhering to global standards. The court has issued notice to Phogat on the WFI's petition, indicating that the larger legal and compliance issues will be examined at a later stage.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 29, 2026 03:22 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).