The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on Saturday reversed it stand and allowed Vinesh Phogat to compete in the 53kg category for the Asian Games selection trials.
The controversy unfolded during the official weigh-in on Saturday morning when Vinesh was told that she would only be allowed to compete in the 50kg category. Officials said the decision was based on the fact that she had participated in her last four international tournaments, including the Paris Olympics, in that weight class.
Vinesh strongly disagreed with the ruling and alleged that the federation was treating her unfairly by not allowing her to compete in the weight category of her choice.
According to sources at the venue, the situation became heated before WFI president Sanjay Singh stepped in. After discussions, he decided to allow Vinesh to take part in the 53kg trials as well.
“We allowed her after she threw accusations and asked the officials to take her weight,” WFI president Sanjay Singh told PTI.
“We do not want to discriminate anyone. She did not inform which category she wants to compete and still letting her.”
Vinesh subsequently weighed in at 53.9kg and was accommodated in the 53kg draw.
It now sets up an intriguing battle between her, another proven performer Antim Panghal and the fast-rising Meenakshi Goyat. The wrestler who wins the trials will secure a place in India’s squad for the Asian Games later this year.
In a brief interaction with the media while preparing for the trials, Vinesh said, “I am here for at least two years.”
The decision marked a major U-turn by the WFI, which had earlier insisted that Vinesh would only be considered for the 50kg category.
The federation’s stand was that Vinesh had been competing in the 50kg division in recent international tournaments and had not officially informed the WFI about her intention to switch weight categories for the trials.
The matter had already sparked controversy after the Delhi High Court directed the WFI to treat Vinesh as an “iconic player” and allow her to take part in the Asian Games selection trials.
However, Vinesh has competed in different weight categories throughout her career, including 53kg, and was eager to contest the trials in that division.
