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The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has formally issued a show cause notice to Vinesh Phogat, a three-time Olympian, citing several instances of indiscipline and violations of anti-doping regulations. As a result, she has been declared ineligible to participate in the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament 2026 scheduled in Gonda.

Key Allegations Against Phogat

In a comprehensive 15-page notice dated May 9, 2026, the WFI outlined four significant charges against Phogat. These include her failure to meet weight requirements at the Paris Olympics, alleged breaches of anti-doping rules, non-compliance with return-to-competition protocols after retirement, and infractions during the selection trials held in March 2024.

National Embarrassment and Damage to Reputation

The WFI characterized Phogat's disqualification from the women's 50kg gold medal match at the Paris 2024 Olympics as a 'national embarrassment.' They emphasized that she was 'duty-bound' to adhere to the required weight throughout the competition, and her failure to do so has caused 'lasting damage to the reputation of Indian wrestling.'

Doping Violations and Missed Tests

The notice also referenced a 'Recorded Missed Test' from December 18, 2025, reported by the International Testing Agency (ITA), alleging that Phogat exhibited a 'cumulative pattern' of failures regarding whereabouts. Additionally, another missed test from September 9, 2024, was cited as part of the accusations.

Return-to-Competition Violations

Phogat is also accused of violating Article 5.7 of the United World Wrestling (UWW) Anti-Doping Rules by not providing the required six-month notice before returning to competition after her retirement. Furthermore, during the March 2024 selection trials, she allegedly competed in two different weight categories, 50kg and 53kg, which the WFI described as a 'direct and manifest violation' of UWW regulations.

Temporary Ban Imposed

Pending her response, the WFI has prohibited Phogat from participating in any sanctioned events until at least June 26, 2026. The notice stated that allowing her to compete would be 'unsafe and contrary to the integrity of doping control' until all compliance issues are resolved.

Concerns Over Tournament Venue

This situation arises amid a public dispute regarding the venue for the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Phogat has voiced concerns about her safety, as Gonda is known to be a stronghold of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, against whom she has filed a complaint in an ongoing sexual harassment case.

Phogat Questions Safety

In a video message, Phogat expressed her apprehensions about competing in such an environment, stating, 'Imagine if I go to his house and to his college... where every person would be related to him. I don't think I will be able to give my 100 percent there.'

WFI Responds to Safety Concerns

Following her video, WFI President Sanjay Singh dismissed her concerns, assuring that her safety would be prioritized during the event. He stated, 'We have UWW-approved referees officiating, and all trial bouts are recorded, ensuring no chance of bias.'

Deadline for Response Set

The federation has granted Phogat a 14-day period to respond to the allegations, specifically requesting her to address the claims of 'unsportsmanlike behavior' and 'grave acts of indiscipline' mentioned in the notice. The WFI warned that failure to reply within this timeframe would lead to the matter proceeding ex parte, allowing the federation to make decisions as deemed appropriate.