Delhi High Court rejects Vinesh Phogat's petition for trials exemption

The Delhi High Court on September 10 dismissed a petition filed by Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat seeking exemption from mandatory selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Wrestling Championship. The order effectively prevents her from competing in the upcoming trials scheduled for September 14.

Phogat's petition had sought interim relief to allow her direct participation in the championship selection process without undergoing the standard trials procedure. The court's refusal to grant the interim measure means she must now follow the established selection protocol like other candidates.

The decision comes amid discussions within Indian wrestling circles regarding selection procedures and athlete participation guidelines. The Wrestling Federation of India has maintained that all competitors must participate in the designated trials to be considered for national team selection.

The outcome marks a significant development for Phogat, who had sought expedited consideration through legal channels. The wrestler will now need to decide on her participation in the September 14 trials if she wishes to pursue selection for the world championship.