Due to his lack of cooperation during the national selection trials in March, Bajrang Punia was placed under provisional suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency [NADA], which significantly harmed his chances of making it to the Paris Olympics 2024.
The fact that Bajrang is already missing this week’s Olympic Qualifiers—the final opportunity to secure an Olympic quota—and that his current suspension prevents him from being considered for a potential trial comes as a rude shock to his hopes of competing in the Paris Olympics.
What happened?
During the selection trials in Sonepat on March 10, Bajrang, who won bronze in the Tokyo Olympics, allegedly neglected to provide a urine sample to NADA officials. Bajrang had lost in the men’s 65kg semifinals. He was found to be in breach of the Article 2.3 of the WADA code.
According to the athlete though, he had asked the NADA representatives to explain an earlier incident in which they had brought an out-of-date kit to test him for drugs.
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Does Bajrang Punia stand a chance to qualify for Paris Olympics 2024?
Bajrang does not currently have a direct path to the Olympics. At this week’s World Olympic Qualifier, Sujeet Kalkal represents India in the men’s 65kg freestyle. This is the wrestlers’ final opportunity to earn a quota for the Paris Games. In the event that Sujeet meets a quota, the WFI may decide to hold a final selection trial or not.
Nevertheless, Bajrang is no longer qualified to participate in any fights because of his temporary suspension. Bajrang will therefore not be able to participate in the selection trials (should they be held) or earn a spot in the Paris Olympics unless the suspension is lifted.
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