Indian judoka Arun Kumar has dropped out of the 2026 Commonwealth Games after failing a doping test

India suffered a major setback just hours before the start of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games when judoka Arun Kumar was ruled out after being informed of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) following an out-of-competition doping test.

As a result, Arun was disqualified from the men’s 73kg competition at this year’s judo competition after being found ineligible.

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) gave notice on Wednesday, after which Arun’s name was removed from the Commonwealth Games 2026 sports record system. After the AAF was informed, the International Judo Federation (IJF) informed the organizers while the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) was also informed of the development.

“Glasgow 2026 has received confirmation from the International Judo Federation that Arun Kumar is ineligible to compete at Glasgow 2026. As a result, he will be removed from the sporting record system,” Ellise Anderson wrote on behalf of the organisers.

NO COMPENSATION FOR ARUN

Judo Federation of India president Mukesh Kumar said they had high hopes for Arun during the Games and said they would not be able to name a replacement before the action gets underway on Thursday as the medal competitions begin on Friday.

“His notice came only yesterday that he has to send his reply within 15 days. We will give him time but as per the rules he cannot compete. Also we cannot replace anyone in such a short time. It is unfortunate as we had high hopes from Arun,” Kumar told The Tribune on Thursday.

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Published on:

Jul 23, 2026 1:37 PM IST