Delhi HC refuses to allow Vinesh Phogat’s participation in selection trials for 2026 Senior World Championships
The Delhi High Court has denied wrestler Vinesh Phogat's request for an interim exemption to participate in the 2026 Senior World Championships selection trials. The court ruled that eligibility criteria must be applied uniformly to all athletes, regardless of individual circumstances like maternity leave.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing legal and ethical debate regarding how sports federations balance standardized eligibility policies with the needs of athletes returning from pregnancy.
The Delhi High Court on Thursday (September 10, 2026) refused to allow wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the women's selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Championships.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, in a late-night interim order, said that at this stage, the court was not inclined to grant an interim exemption from the eligibility criteria to allow the petitioner to participate in the selection trials on September 14.
"To reiterate, the criteria prescribed under the circular dated September 7, 2026 apply uniformly to all athletes. An athlete who has not participated in the prescribed competitions, for whatever reason, would not fall within the eligibility categories specified by respondent no. 1 (WFI)," the court said.
The High Court passed the order while dismissing an application by Ms. Phogat, who has returned from maternity leave, seeking permission to participate in the selection trials.
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