HC denies Vinesh Phogat entry to Worlds trials: ‘Not inclined to grant exemption’
· Sports · Times of India, Hindustan Times
The Delhi High Court refused a request to allow wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Championships. Phogat sought an major exemption from the eligibility criteria set by the way Federation of India (WFI) after her return from maternity leave. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma noted that while circumstances like pregnancy and postpartum recovery require consideration when examining policy validity, they do not entitle her to participation at this stage. The court stated that granting relief to one individual without adjudicating the policy could result in unequal treatment of other similar athletes.
Why it matters
This ruling sets a way for how sports bodies handle eligibility for female athletes returning from maternity leave, balancing uniform rules with individual biological realities.
Read the original report — Times of India
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.