Wrestler Vinesh Phogat finds herself embroiled in a last-minute accreditation dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) just days before the crucial Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Vinesh Phogat seeks accreditation
Vinesh Phogat, aiming for an Olympic quota in the 50 kg category, expressed her frustration on social media platform X, stating, “For the past one month, I have been requesting the Government of India (SAI, TOPS) for the accreditation of my coach and physio to accompany me to the competition area. But despite repeated requests, I am not getting any concrete answer from anywhere.”
SAI Confirms approval of Vinesh’s Proposal
However, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) counters Vinesh Phogat’s claims. A statement from SAI clarifies that the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) approved a proposal received on April 3rd from Vinesh for her coach, physio, and sparring partner to travel to Bishkek. The statement highlights that the responsibility for timely submission of entries lies with the WFI.
Confusion over Submission Deadlines
Adding another layer of complexity, a source reveals Vinesh emailed the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the now-disbanded ad-hoc committee on March 18th, while the official deadline for entry submission set by United World Wrestling was March 21st.
WFI Position on support staff
The WFI maintains that a female physio and three coaches (men’s freestyle, Greco-Roman, and women’s) are already part of the contingent traveling to Bishkek. They question why Vinesh Phogat would require a personal physio when a team physio is present. The WFI also emphasizes that they submitted entries with approval from SAI and the sports ministry.
SAI Disputes WFI claim on entry submission
SAI contradicts the WFI’s statement, claiming the WFI did not share the list of wrestlers and support staff, and that submitting entries is solely the federation’s responsibility. SAI’s statement further clarifies that the WFI submitted entries on March 22nd, after the official deadline.
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Vinesh Phogat raises concerns of Doping Conspiracy
Beyond the accreditation issue, Vinesh Phogat’s social media post also accuses the WFI president and his deputy of creating hurdles for her Olympic qualification journey. She fears a potential doping conspiracy, suggesting they might tamper with her drinks. These accusations raise serious concerns about internal politics within the WFI.
Unresolved Dispute Threatens Olympic Qualification Chances
With the qualifiers just days away, the unresolved accreditation dispute casts a shadow over Vinesh’s Olympic qualification chances. It remains to be seen if a solution can be reached in time to allow her chosen support staff to accompany her to Bishkek.
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