Vinesh Phogat Barred Till June 26 Over Doping Rule Violation, Says She Faced Abuse by Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh

May 9, 2026

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has banned Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from participating in domestic competitions until June 26. On Saturday, WFI sent a notice to Vinesh stating that she has violated WFI rules, doping rules, and international wrestling regulations.

WFI stated that Vinesh did not give six months’ notice for her return from retirement. Her behavior has embarrassed the country and tarnished the image of Indian wrestling.

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified in the Paris Olympics in August 2024 for being overweight. At that time, she announced her retirement from wrestling. However, she later withdrew her decision.

Secondly, for not participating in the doping test held in Bengaluru on December 18, 2025, the International Testing Agency (ITA) issued a notice to Vinesh Phogat on May 4 of the same month.

Last week, former president Brijbhushan was accused again

Vinesh Phogat had once again made serious allegations against former WFI president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh on May 3. Sharing a video on social media, Vinesh said that a senior open ranking wrestling tournament is happening in Gonda, UP between May 10 and 12.

Today, due to some compulsions, I want to say that I am also among those 6 victims who have filed a complaint against Brijbhushan Sharan. My testimony is also ongoing in court. It will be difficult for me to go to his house (Gonda) to compete in the competition. I don’t think I will be able to give my 100%. It will be quite difficult for a girl.

Me and my team will compete in the competition, and if anything, wrong happens to anyone, the responsibility will lie with the Government of India.

It should be noted that about 3 years ago, Vinesh accused Brijbhushan of sexually harassing female athletes. Regarding this, female wrestlers also held a protest against Brijbhushan at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Vinesh is a Congress MLA from Julana, Haryana. Brijbhushan is a former BJP MP. Currently, one of his sons is an MP from UP and another is an MLA.