Wrestlers Challenge Legality of WFI Elections, Seek Court Intervention

Wrestlers Challenge Legality of WFI Elections, Seek Court Intervention

The Delhi High Court has issued notices to the Central government and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) in response to a petition filed by renowned wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and her husband Satyawart Kadian. The petition challenges the legality of the WFI elections held in December 2023 and seeks their nullification.

The wrestlers, represented by senior advocate Rahul Mehra, allege that the elections violated the Sports Code and were conducted in a manner that undermines the integrity of the sport. They contend that the WFI has engaged in various wrongdoings, including sexual harassment and attempts to silence and sideline wrestlers who have spoken out against these abuses.

The petition specifically targets the election of Sanjay Kumar Singh, a close associate of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, as the new president. The wrestlers argue that this election was orchestrated to maintain the influence of Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by seven women grapplers.

The wrestlers also accuse the WFI of defying directives from the Sports Ministry and the ad-hoc committee appointed to oversee the federation’s affairs. They claim that the WFI has continued to conduct selection trials and other activities in violation of these directives, adversely affecting the career prospects of Indian wrestlers.

The petition requests the court to declare the WFI elections void and to direct the federation to cease all activities related to wrestling. It also seeks the appointment of a retired Supreme Court judge as an administrator to take over the management of the WFI.

The court has granted time to the Central government and the WFI to respond to the petition and has scheduled a further hearing for March 7. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of wrestling in India and the accountability of sports federations.

Indian Table Tennis Teams Qualify for Olympics for First Time Ever

Indian Table Tennis Teams Qualify for Olympics for First Time Ever

Indian table tennis has reached unprecedented heights as both the men’s and women’s teams have secured historic Olympic berths for the first time based on their world rankings. This remarkable achievement marks a watershed moment for the sport in India.

After the conclusion of the World Team Championships Finals in Busan, South Korea, which served as the final qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, seven spots in the team events remained. These spots were awarded to the highest-ranked teams not yet qualified, and India emerged victorious in both the men’s and women’s categories.

In the women’s event, India, ranked 13th in the world, secured its passage to Paris alongside Poland (12th), Sweden (15th), and Thailand. The men’s team, ranked 15th, also booked its ticket to the Olympics, along with Croatia (12th) and Slovenia (11th).

This historic qualification is a testament to the unwavering determination and exceptional talent of the Indian table tennis players. Veteran Sharath Kamal, who will be making his fifth Olympic appearance, expressed his elation on Twitter, stating, “Finally!!!! India qualifies for the team event at the Olympics! Something I have wanted for a long long time! This one is truly special, despite it being my fifth appearance at the Olympics! Kudos to our Women’s Team who also secure a historical quota!”

The Indian teams had narrowly missed out on Olympic berths at the World Team Championships Finals, with the men’s team losing 0-3 to South Korea and the women’s team falling 1-3 to Chinese Taipei in the pre-quarterfinals. However, their impressive world rankings have now earned them a place on the Olympic stage.

This achievement is a significant milestone for Indian table tennis history, as it will be the first time the nation competes in the team event at the Olympics since its inception at the Beijing 2008 Games. The Indian teams will now have the opportunity to showcase their skills against the world’s best and strive for Olympic glory.

LeBron James Becomes First NBA Player to Score 40,000 Career Points

LeBron James Becomes First NBA Player to Score 40,000 Career Points

LeBron James, the iconic NBA superstar, has etched his name in basketball history by becoming the first player to reach the remarkable milestone of 40,000 career points. This historic achievement was accomplished during the Los Angeles Lakers’ home game against the Denver Nuggets, where James showcased his exceptional skills and determination.

Prior to the game, James was just nine points shy of the coveted milestone. With the sold-out crowd eagerly anticipating the moment, he took matters into his own hands. Using a spin move to create space from Denver’s Michael Porter Jr., James drove to the basket and executed a scoop layoff off the glass, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The roar of the crowd was deafening as James reached the historic mark, and they gave him a standing ovation when he went to the bench at the next break. The achievement was a testament to James’ longevity, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the sport.

Just over a year ago, James surpassed Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Now, at 39 years old and in his 21st season, he continues to defy expectations and average around 25 points per game.

Throughout his illustrious career, James has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and four Finals MVP awards. He has also led Team USA to victory in the 2012 Olympics and is expected to participate in this year’s event in Paris.

Despite the historic milestone, James expressed disappointment that it couldn’t prevent a defeat for the Lakers. “For me, the main thing is always to win, so I hate that it happened in defeat,” he said. “Bittersweet, but I enjoyed every moment tonight on the floor.”

James acknowledged the significance of the achievement, stating, “No one has ever done it. For me to be in this position at this point and time in my career, I think it’s pretty cool.” He emphasized that while it may not be the pinnacle of his accomplishments, it holds a special place in his heart.

James also recognized the importance of longevity and good health in achieving such milestones. “You have to play the game quite a while, and have some good luck as far as injuries and that nature,” he said. “Records are always meant to be broken, but you can never say never.”

Kings Crush Devils 5-1, Extend Winning Streak to Eight

Kings Crush Devils 5-1, Extend Winning Streak to Eight

The Los Angeles Kings extended their winning streak to eight games under interim coach Jim Hiller with a dominant 5-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Sunday. Phillip Danault led the charge with a hat trick, while Kevin Fiala contributed a goal and two assists.

The Devils took an early lead just 15 seconds into the game when Timo Meier capitalized on a deflection off the stanchion. However, the Kings responded swiftly, with Danault tying the score on a breakaway set up by Fiala’s stretch pass. Alex Laferriere, a New Jersey native, gave the Kings the lead with a goal late in the first period.

The Kings continued to dominate in the second period, with Danault scoring into an open net and Fiala adding a power-play goal to chase Devils goalie Nico Daws from the game. Danault completed his hat trick with an empty-netter in the third period.

Cam Talbot made 30 saves for the Kings, while Akira Schmid stopped eight shots in relief for the Devils. The Kings have now won eight of their last 12 games under Hiller, who replaced Todd McLellan on February 2.

The Devils, on the other hand, have lost five of their last seven games. They will look to bounce back when they host the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. The Kings will also be in action on Tuesday, hosting the Vancouver Canucks.

Dodgers' Betts, Ohtani, Freeman Shine in Spring Training

Dodgers’ Betts, Ohtani, Freeman Shine in Spring Training

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ formidable batting lineup, featuring Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman, showcased their prowess in a spring training game against the Colorado Rockies. Betts and Ohtani each collected three hits, while Freeman drove in two runs. Betts has been impressive this spring, batting .412 with seven hits in 17 at-bats, while Ohtani has also been in fine form, hitting .714 with five hits in seven at-bats.

Ohtani, who joined the Dodgers in December on a $700 million contract, displayed his versatility by singling, tripling, and driving in a run. Despite undergoing major elbow surgery and not pitching this season, Ohtani’s offensive skills remain sharp.

Meanwhile, Chris Sale, the veteran left-hander acquired by the Atlanta Braves in a trade with Boston, made a strong impression in his first spring training outing. Sale struck out five batters in 2 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing only three hits and walking two. The 34-year-old Sale has been plagued by injuries in recent years, but he appears to be regaining his form.

Detroit Tigers pitchers Matt Manning and Casey Mize also made encouraging comebacks from injuries in a game against the New York Yankees. Manning, who suffered a broken foot last season, allowed only one hit in three innings, while Mize, who underwent Tommy John and back surgeries, gave up one hit and walked two in two scoreless innings.

Meillard Claims Slalom Victory in Aspen, Capping Podium-Filled Weekend

Meillard Claims Slalom Victory in Aspen, Capping Podium-Filled Weekend

Loic Meillard of Switzerland capped off a remarkable weekend in Aspen by claiming victory in the World Cup slalom, adding to his podium finishes in the giant slalom races.

After finishing second in consecutive giant slalom events, Meillard overcame a first-run deficit to triumph on Sunday with a combined time of 1 minute, 42.73 seconds. He edged out Linus Strasser of Germany by 0.89 seconds, while Norway’s Henrik Kristoffersen secured third place.

France’s Clement Noel, who led after the opening run, faltered on the challenging course in his final attempt and failed to finish. “A long weekend,” Meillard remarked, “but very happy with how it went.”

Manuel Feller of Austria climbed to fifth position in the final run, solidifying his substantial lead in the season-long World Cup slalom standings. He holds a 169-point advantage over Strasser heading into the final two races in the discipline.

Three Americans, including Jett Seymour in 25th place, qualified for the second run. Seymour finished four seconds behind Meillard’s winning time.

This marked Meillard’s third career World Cup victory and his first in slalom. “It took some time in slalom. I was always there but never quite in front,” Meillard said. “It’s amazing to do it and definitely in a tough race.”

The Swiss team enjoyed a successful weekend, with Marco Odermatt winning both giant slalom races and holding off Meillard. Odermatt has already secured the season-long GS crown and a third consecutive overall World Cup title.

Meillard joins an illustrious group of skiers who have triumphed in the slalom in Aspen during a men’s World Cup event, including Billy Kidd, Ingemar Stenmark, and Andre Myhrer.

Snowy conditions on Sunday presented a formidable challenge in the first run, with 25 competitors failing to complete the treacherous course and one being disqualified. Meillard was the only racer to finish within one second of Noel’s opening run.

The men’s World Cup circuit now moves to Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, for giant slalom and slalom events next weekend.

2024 Candidates Chess Tournament Faces Relocation Due to Visa Issues

2024 Candidates Chess Tournament Faces Relocation Due to Visa Issues

The 2024 Candidates chess tournament, scheduled to take place in Toronto, Canada, from April 3 to 23, faces an uncertain future due to unresolved visa issues for players and participants. The tournament, which determines the challengers for the world champion title in both the open and women’s categories, is at risk of being moved out of Canada if the visa problems are not resolved by Friday.

Vladimir Drkulec, president of the Chess Federation of Canada, expressed concern over the situation, stating that “if we cannot resolve these issues by Friday, the tournament will be moved to Spain.” He emphasized the need for “political will” to address the issue and expressed cautious optimism that a resolution could be reached before the deadline.

The tournament faces uncertainty as many players, including India’s teen sensation R Praggnanandhaa, have not received their visas. As many as 40 participants, including 16 players, are yet to secure visas. Vidit Gujrathi, Gukesh D, and Vaishali Rameshbabu, Praggnanandhaa’s sister, are among those who have not been issued visas.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) made an urgent appeal last Friday, expressing concern about the lack of visa updates for players who submitted their applications months ago. The appeal, posted on social media, tagged Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, and his department.

Drkulec stated that the federation has contacted multiple members of parliament and government ministers, receiving positive responses from their staff. FIDE director general Emil Sutovsky emphasized that the tournament will not be postponed or players replaced due to visa issues.

This will be the first time the nearly 70-year-old tournament is being held in North America and will feature 16 of the world’s best players. The tournament is a significant event in the chess world, and its relocation would be a major disappointment for the Canadian chess community and fans worldwide.

Praggnanandhaa Triumphs, Gukesh Stumbles in Prague Masters

Praggnanandhaa Triumphs, Gukesh Stumbles in Prague Masters

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious in the fifth round of the Prague Masters, defeating compatriot Vidit Gujrathi in a thrilling encounter. However, D Gukesh suffered a disappointing loss to Czech Republic’s David Navara, despite holding a strong position.

Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Abdusattarov continued his impressive run, crushing Mateusz Bartel of Poland to become the sole leader with four points. Parham Maghsoodloo of Iran trails closely with 3.5 points, while Richard Rapport of Romania sits in third with three points.

Praggnanandhaa, known for his aggressive style, kept pushing for an advantage against Gujrathi, who initially held his own. However, Gujrathi’s misstep allowed Praggnanandhaa to launch a devastating attack, securing the win in 52 moves.

Gukesh, on the other hand, had a comfortable position with an extra pawn in the endgame. However, Navara managed to turn the tables, exploiting Gukesh’s errors and converting his advantage into a victory.

Abdusattarov displayed his dominance against Bartel, opting for the Sicilian Dragon opening and quickly gaining the upper hand. The Polish Grandmaster struggled to find a response, and Abdusattarov sealed the win in just 28 moves.

In the Challengers section, Grandmaster R Vaishali suffered a setback against Erwin L’Ami of Holland, while Arjun Erigaisi impressed in the Shenzen Masters by defeating Anish Giri of Holland.

With four rounds remaining in the Prague Masters, Abdusattarov holds a commanding lead. Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh, and Navara share fourth place with 2.5 points each, while Gujrathi and Keymer trail with two points.

India's Bhoria Loses in World Olympic Boxing Qualifier Opener

India’s Bhoria Loses in World Olympic Boxing Qualifier Opener

India’s Olympic boxing aspirations suffered a setback at the World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy, as Deepak Bhoria (51kg) succumbed to a 2-3 split verdict against Azerbaijan’s Huseynov Nijat on the opening day.

Bhoria, who had edged out 2019 World Championships silver medalist Amit Panghal for a spot in the Indian squad, faced a formidable opponent in Nijat. The Azerbaijani boxer’s pace and agility proved too much for Bhoria in the first two rounds, which he lost by identical 2-3 scorelines.

Undeterred, Bhoria rallied in the final round, delivering some impressive blows to secure a 4-1 victory. However, it was not enough to overcome the deficit from the earlier rounds.

Despite Bhoria’s defeat, India still has hopes of securing Olympic quotas through Asian Games bronze medalist Narender (92kg) and Commonwealth Games 2022 bronze medalist Jaismine (60kg), who will face Germany’s Nelvie Tiafack and Japan’s Ayaka Taguchi respectively later on Sunday.

The World Olympic Boxing Qualifier offers 49 quotas for the Paris Olympics, including 28 for men and 21 for women. India has already secured four quotas for the Games.

Red Bull Faces 'Explosion' Threat Amidst Horner Controversy

Red Bull Faces ‘Explosion’ Threat Amidst Horner Controversy

Jos Verstappen, father of reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, has raised concerns about the future of the Red Bull team amidst allegations of inappropriate behavior against team boss Christian Horner.

Verstappen Sr. expressed his belief that the team is on the brink of collapse if Horner remains in his position. “There is tension here while he (Horner) remains in position,” he told the Daily Mail. “The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode.”

Verstappen rejected claims that he played any role in the allegations against Horner, which were initially reported by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. “That wouldn’t make sense. Why would I do that when Max is doing so well here?” he said.

Red Bull announced on Wednesday that Horner had been cleared of the allegations following an internal investigation. However, the subsequent leak of anonymous emails containing alleged WhatsApp messages from Horner has reignited the controversy.

Several teams have criticized the lack of transparency in the investigation. Horner, who was accompanied by his wife Geri Halliwell in Bahrain, maintained that the team was united after Red Bull’s one-two finish in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

“A one-two finish like this is the optimum and you don’t get that without being absolutely united, having a strong team and great support from partners and shareholders,” he said.

Horner expressed confidence in his support from the Red Bull owners, including majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya. “Backing? Absolutely, yes. And I’ll be there. Otherwise I wouldn’t be here!” he said.

Horner has led Red Bull to six constructors’ championship wins and seven drivers’ title triumphs since 2005. Last year’s Red Bull car won a record 21 of 22 races, dominating the season.

The allegations against Horner and the subsequent fallout have cast a shadow over Red Bull’s start to the 2023 season. It remains to be seen whether the team can maintain its unity and success amidst the ongoing controversy.

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