Vinesh Phogat issues clarification on competing in two weight categories at wrestling trials for Asian Olympic Qualifiers

Published at :March 14, 2024 at 10:20 PM

Modified at :March 14, 2024 at 10:20 PM

(Courtesy : India Today)

Vinesh Phogat recently Participated in two categories in the Olympic trials.

In a recent turn of events, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat took to social media to address the controversies surrounding her participation in both the 50 kg and 53 kg categories during the selection trials for the Asian Olympic qualifiers and Asian Championships.

Phogat, a former Asian Games Gold medalist, stated, “I have undergone doping tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials.” This statement comes in response to circulating claims questioning her compliance with doping regulations.

The wrestler also highlighted the ongoing disputes between the Ad-hoc committee and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), which have led to a cloud of uncertainty over the rules governing future competitions in India.

“There have been claims circulating that I did not undergo a doping test after the trials. I want to clarify that I, along with all other finalists, have undergone doping tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials,” she said in the statement.

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“Regarding my participation in the 53kg category, it is crucial to understand that Article 7 of the UWW regulations, which stipulates that each contestant may compete in only one weight category corresponding to their official weigh-in, applies to international events and not national trials. This was confirmed by the Ad-hoc committee and officials, allowing me to participate in both the 50kg and 53kg categories during the trials,” she continued.

“The fluctuating circumstances that can arise surrounding the qualification pathway for the 53 kg category, because of disputes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, have created uncertainty and instability in the rules and regulations governing future competitions in India.

“In light of the ongoing issues and the potential for leadership changes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, I felt compelled to secure my path to the Olympic Games by participating in both weight categories, as my Olympic weight category has historically been 53kg. Regrettably, my participation has raised more questions than answers, especially concerning the involvement of WFI officials in the trials despite court orders to the contrary,” she added.

At the recent selection trials, Vinesh Phogat took everyone by surprise by opting to compete in the 50kg category, deviating from her expected 53kg division. Despite this, she was adamant about participating in the 53kg trials, aiming to tackle both categories.

Vinesh Phogat executed a strategic move by entering both the 50kg and 53kg categories at the trials. The wrestler from Haryana, secured victories in her initial matches across both divisions with remarkable ease. She maintained her winning streak in the 50kg bouts and strategically navigated through the 53kg category, which included a tactical loss.

The 53kg competition followed a round-robin structure, requiring Vinesh to secure just a single victory to rank among the top four wrestlers. Within a short span, she not only clinched the leading position in the 50kg class but also positioned herself as a contender for the quota spot.

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