Dr Shabana Safdar Khan
Pakistan’s sports system is in a serious state of decline, and it’s not just about losing medals or failing to qualify for international tournaments—it’s about decades of neglect, poor governance, and missed opportunities. More than twenty years have passed since the introduction of the National Sports Policy, yet its implementation remains patchy, weak, and largely ineffective. The recent warnings issued by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to five national sports federations for violating term limits highlight how stagnant and mismanaged the system has become. These warnings are not just administrative reminders—they represent how far our sports leadership has drifted from merit, vision, and responsibility.
The problem, however, goes much deeper than a few overstaying officeholders. After the 18th Amendment devolved powers to the provinces, the federal government’s role in sports governance became unclear. The PSB’s control weakened, and sports federations began operating like private fiefdoms, often controlled by bureaucrats or political appointees with no connection to the sport itself. Many of these federations function without transparency or accountability, and some even resist adopting the National Sports Policy altogether, especially if they can raise funds independently. What should be institutions for nurturing talent and promoting competition have become spaces for career comfort and personal networking.
This decline in governance has had a visible impact on the ground. Pakistan’s presence in global sports beyond cricket has faded dramatically. The country that once produced hockey legends and squash champions now struggles to qualify for regional tournaments. Facilities at the grassroots level are either non-existent or crumbling, and access to coaching, equipment, or even safe playing spaces is limited to a privileged few. Meanwhile, our educational institutions continue to treat sports as an unnecessary distraction, reinforcing the belief that athletic ability has no place in a successful career.
Globally, nations are investing heavily in sports as a way to energize their youth, boost public health, and even grow their economies. India, for example, has launched new sports policies that focus on grassroots talent, training infrastructure, and international partnerships. Pakistan, on the other hand, is stuck in bureaucratic delays, weak leadership, and a lack of national vision. Even when reforms are proposed—such as the PSB’s recent efforts to restructure elections for sports federations—they are met with controversy. The International Olympic Committee, for instance, has raised concerns about government interference, which underlines the importance of respecting global norms while pursuing local accountability.
Yet, all is not lost. Pakistan is a country full of raw talent and natural athleticism. From young footballers in Lyari to aspiring wrestlers in Punjab, passion for sports exists in every corner. But talent alone is not enough. There must be a structured ecosystem to support it—one that provides training, resources, recognition, and long-term career opportunities. This requires a complete rethinking of our national sports framework.
What Pakistan urgently needs is a modern, inclusive, and enforceable national sports policy. This new policy should not just exist on paper but must be built into the governance and funding structures of all federations. It should set clear term limits for officeholders, enforce regular audits, and ensure that leadership is based on experience and competence—not political affiliation or personal relationships. Transparency, merit, and performance must become the foundation of every federation’s operations.
At the same time, the state must invest in developing sports infrastructure at the grassroots level. Every district deserves access to proper playing grounds, youth leagues, and community coaching programs. Schools and colleges must integrate sports into their curriculum—not as an extra-curricular activity but as a core component of holistic education. Incentives should also be introduced for private companies to invest in sports, from sponsoring local tournaments to funding athlete development programs.
Women’s sports, in particular, need focused attention. Female athletes in Pakistan face not only a lack of facilities but also cultural barriers and minimal media coverage. Any future sports policy must guarantee equal opportunities for women in terms of funding, training, and visibility. Their participation is not just a matter of gender rights—it’s essential to national progress.
Moreover, coordination between provinces and the federation must be improved. Sports cannot be developed in silos. A national council involving all key stakeholders—federation heads, athletes, coaches, and policymakers—should meet regularly to align goals, share resources, and resolve conflicts. The PSB should act as a facilitator and regulator, not a controller, ensuring compliance without overstepping international charters.
Lastly, society itself needs to revalue sports. Parents must stop discouraging children from pursuing athletics. Teachers should be trained to identify and support talented students. Media houses should expand their coverage to showcase athletes across disciplines. Sports personalities must be celebrated not only when they win but also as role models of discipline, resilience, and national pride.
Pakistan’s sports decline is not inevitable—it is the result of choices and neglect. But with the right leadership, policy reform, and public support, we can turn the tide. We can rediscover our sporting spirit, raise a new generation of champions, and build a system that reflects the strength, diversity, and determination of our people. It’s time to get back in the game—with focus, unity, and purpose.
