Is AFI Permission Now Mandatory for Athletes Traveling Abroad for Training and Exposure?

Mumbai, May 10 (NationPress) Following a recent incident where an Indian athlete tested positive for a prohibited substance during an overseas training trip, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has instituted a requirement for all athletes seeking to travel abroad for training or competitions to secure written approval from the national body.

The AFI plans to impose penalties on athletes who fail to obtain the necessary written consent to train or compete on international grounds starting this month, as stated by AFI president Bahadur Singh Sagoo on Saturday.

"Disciplinary measures will be enforced against athletes who do not seek prior approval from the national governing body for participating in competitions abroad," the AFI president remarked.

Another factor prompting this decision is the AFI's lack of records regarding athletes traveling to training locations with questionable reputations known for doping.

With a notable number of athletes being penalized according to lists from WADA and AIU, the AFI is concerned that these unregulated trips abroad for supposed training and exposure could lead to further disgrace internationally and could impact India's ambitions to host major events such as the Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympic Games.

Consequently, the AFI has resolved not to recognize the performances of athletes who travel abroad for training or competitions without official written permission from the national federation.

“Athletes’ performances will be rendered invalid for record purposes if they fail to secure mandatory approval from the AFI for international exposure,” the AFI president continued. “To protect the interests of athletes, the AFI has established a specific timeline for granting permission for training and competition abroad.”

To facilitate the process of granting permission for competing and training internationally, the AFI has developed guidelines to ensure transparency. Athletes must provide detailed information regarding the competition, including the destination country, when submitting their application to the AFI. The AFI will evaluate each application within one week of receipt. If necessary, further clarification may be sought from the athlete, as explained by the AFI president.

“The decision regarding approval or denial will be communicated in writing within a week,” the AFI president added. “Athletes must submit their applications at least 30 days before the competition date to the AFI, along with proof of an invitation. If applicable, a recommendation letter from the relevant department or institution is required.”

Meanwhile, to enhance participation in domestic competitions, the national governing body for track and field has implemented a policy to maintain a record of individuals to ensure they do not evade dope testing officials.

“The AFI needs to be aware of how many individual athletes are competing abroad and the purpose behind their international exposure,” the AFI president stated. “Regardless of their level or institutional affiliation, athletes must obtain prior written permission from the AFI office before submitting entries to participate in any international competition overseas in the future.”

The AFI has expressed dissatisfaction with some privately managed academies and training facilities that are encroaching on athletes' schedules for the season, effectively excluding the AFI from the planning process.

Athletes going on international exposure tours without prior permission significantly undermines the AFI's strategy to assemble national teams for key competitions, including the Olympics and Asian Games, the AFI president clarified.

“Earlier in March, a virtual meeting of the AFI Core Committee was convened to address and formulate policies regarding international exposure, including training,” the AFI president concluded.