AFI’s diktat against athletes who train without permission

Representational image.
| Photo Credit: Freepik

With a plan to monitor its athletes closely, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has now made it clear that they cannot compete or train abroad without its clearance.

The AFI will also take action against athletes who compete in international meets without seeking its permission and their results in these meets will not be considered.

“The performance of the athletes will be invalid for record books if they don’t take mandatory approval of the AFI for international exposure,” said AFI president Bahadur Singh Sagoo.

“To safeguard the interest of athletes, the AFI has set a specific time period to grant permission to train and compete abroad. Disciplinary action will be taken against those athletes who don’t take prior permission.”

The AFI has also explained, in a circular, that the new rules have been introduced to ensure that “representation is appropriate and aligns with India’s athletics calendar, that events meet quality and safety standards, that there is no scheduling conflicts with national commitments or trials and to keep watch on athletes to ensure they are not using any hideouts for doping”.

Athletes are to apply at least 30 days before the competition date and must include details of the event, proof of invitation and recommendation letter from their institution, academy or department.

The decision — approval or rejection — will be communicated in writing within one week and in case, the AFI fails to do this, the permission shall be deemed granted, says the AFI circular.