The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court’s order permitting wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games. The matter is scheduled to be heard on Friday by a bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe.
The legal challenge comes days after the Delhi High Court allowed Phogat to compete in the upcoming selection trials, which are set to take place on May 30 and 31. The high court had observed that the WFI’s selection policy appeared exclusionary because it did not provide discretionary provisions for accomplished athletes returning from extended breaks, including maternity leave.
In its May 22 order, the division bench noted that Phogat’s stature and achievements in Indian wrestling warranted fair consideration during the selection process. The court emphasised that the federation’s existing policy lacked flexibility to accommodate iconic athletes attempting a comeback after personal or medical interruptions in their careers.
Also Read: Delhi High Court to Examine WFI Selection Policy on Vinesh Phogat's Wrestling Comeback Plea
To ensure transparency in the selection process, the Delhi High Court had directed the WFI to video-record the entire trial proceedings. The court also ordered that independent observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) remain present during the trials to oversee the process.
The WFI has now challenged the order before the apex court, arguing against the high court’s intervention in the federation’s selection procedures. The outcome of the Supreme Court hearing is expected to determine whether Phogat will be allowed to compete in the trials under the current arrangements directed by the high court.
Vinesh Phogat remains one of India’s most prominent wrestlers and has represented the country at multiple international tournaments, including the Olympics, World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Her possible return to competitive wrestling after a maternity break has attracted significant attention within the sporting community ahead of the Asian Games selection process.
Also Read: Vinesh Phogat Claims WFI Portal Blocked Her Return After 20‑Month Retirement