Amid Vinesh Phogat-WFI Dispute, Wrestlers’ Conduct at Trials Faces Spotlight

Vinesh-WFI Row Takes New Turn as Federation Reviews Conduct at National Trials

The simmering conflict between Vinesh Phogat and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has entered a fresh phase, with the federation indicating that the conduct of wrestlers during the recent national selection trials is under review.

The development comes after a controversial day at the trials, where a series of disputed refereeing decisions during Vinesh’s quarterfinal bout against Nishu sparked protests, heated exchanges and a temporary disruption of proceedings.

The controversy began when Vinesh, trailing 0-5, appeared to have secured a pinfall victory. However, the referee stopped the action and awarded her four points instead of ending the contest. The decision prompted immediate objections from her camp, with her husband, Somvir Rathee, entering the field of play and throwing a water bottle onto the mat.

Vinesh challenged the ruling and the decision was eventually overturned in her favour.

Soon after, another review triggered fresh frustration. Vinesh’s corner argued that an arm throw should have earned four points, but officials awarded only two. A challenge was lodged, but this time the original decision stood.

The situation escalated when Vinesh and her coaching staff sought access to the video footage used during the review process. With the review monitor reportedly not functioning, officials were unable to display the replay, leading to a heated exchange involving WFI president Sanjay Singh, federation officials and members of Vinesh’s support team. The altercation briefly halted the trials before competition resumed.

WFI Receives Vinesh’s Reply

In a statement issued on Thursday, the federation confirmed that it had received Vinesh’s response to the show-cause notice served to her following the incident.

“WFI has received the Respondent’s (Vinesh’s) reply to the Show Cause Notice, which shall be adjudicated in accordance with WFI’s rules and procedures,” WFI president Sanjay Kumar Singh said.

While the statement did not specifically name Vinesh in relation to the conduct review, it suggested that action could be taken after the federation completes its assessment.

“WFI further notes that the conduct of certain wrestlers at the Selection Trials is under consideration and a decision in that regard is yet to be taken,” the statement read.

Federation Stresses Merit-Based Selection

The WFI also used the opportunity to underline its selection policy, stating that future entries into the national team would be determined solely on performance. “WFI wishes to make it unequivocally clear that all future selections shall be strictly merit-based, without exception or exemption to any wrestler, regardless of stature or past achievements.”

The federation further emphasized that reputation alone would not guarantee opportunities at the national level.

“There shall be no shortcuts to national selection,” it added.

The latest development comes days after Vinesh secured a significant legal win, with the Supreme Court dismissing the WFI’s plea seeking to prevent her participation in the trials.

However, with the federation yet to decide on the conduct-related matter and the show-cause proceedings still pending, the strained relationship between one of India’s most celebrated wrestlers and the sport’s governing body appears far from reaching a resolution.