Asian Games 2026: The Indian contingent has suffered a setback before the start of the Asian Games. Greco-Roman wrestler Deepak has been ruled out of the Games after testing positive for doping.
Deepak out of Asian Games
The Asian Games, hosted by Japan, begin on September 19th. The Indian contingent has suffered a setback ahead of the event, as Greco-Roman wrestler Deepak has tested positive for doping. Deepak is not the first wrestler to be disqualified from the Asian Games due to doping; Mukul Dahiya and Deepanshu have also faced similar consequences.
A notice issued by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) stated that Deepak's urine sample tested positive for clomiphene during the selection trials. The drug is banned under category S4 of "hormone and metabolic modulators" on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) prohibited list.
NADA stated that the doping issue first came to light on July 23rd, when Deepak's sample tested abnormal. An investigation was subsequently initiated, and the case was pursued after Deepak was interviewed on August 17th. Clomiphene is a drug used to treat infertility in both men and women.
Deepak's impressive performances over the past few months earned him the opportunity to join the Indian team. Deepak works for the Indian Postal Service and was the first wrestler from this department to be selected for the Asian Games in history. Unfortunately, he has been forced to withdraw from the Games.
The good news for Deepak is that he hasn't been suspended, so he'll be allowed to participate in upcoming events for now. However, if he's banned later, that's a separate issue. If he's found guilty of violating anti-doping rules, his bout results from the date his sample was taken on May 31, 2026, could be disqualified.
An official with the Rail Wrestling Federation of India said Deepak was excluded from the Asian Games to avoid a heavy fine. Had he tested positive for doping during the Asian Games, the United World Wrestling (UWW) could have fined him up to 2 million rupees.
According to NADA, Deepak did not disclose any information regarding his use of any banned substances on the doping control form. It was also revealed that Deepak was unable to provide any documentation, such as bills or receipts, for the supplements he claimed to have consumed.
