Pakistan’s sports sector finds itself in a dire state, marred by internal politics, mismanagement, and an utter lack of strategic planning. The latest blow came on Thursday when FIFA, the global governing body for football, suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) “with immediate effect.” The decision was prompted by the recently elected PFF Congress’s rejection of constitutional amendments proposed by FIFA. This debacle is yet another shameful episode in a long list of setbacks that have plagued the nation’s sports scene, both locally and internationally.
FIFA’s suspension statement underscored the gravity of the situation, citing a breach of its statutory requirements. The global football body expressed disappointment over the lack of cooperation and adherence to governance reforms necessary for the federation’s proper functioning. This move will not only bar Pakistan’s national teams from participating in international events but also curtail the financial and developmental assistance the PFF receives from FIFA.
At the center of this controversy is the leadership of the PFF, which has seen years of infighting and political wrangling. Haroon Malik, currently heading the PFF, was appointed as part of normalization efforts mandated by FIFA to steer the organization back on track. However, persistent power struggles among factions have undermined these efforts. The federation’s budget, which receives both state and international funding, has reportedly been squandered due to mismanagement and internal disputes, leaving little room for investment in grassroots development or player welfare.
The suspension is a harsh reminder of the dismal state of football in Pakistan. Despite being a nation brimming with talent and passion for the sport, the country has failed to establish a stable and professional football system. Infrastructure remains woefully inadequate, coaching facilities are subpar, and players often lack basic amenities. The political interference and factionalism have crippled any efforts to build a cohesive football ecosystem.
Football is not the only sport suffering from the malaise of mismanagement and neglect in Pakistan. Hockey, once the pride of the nation with multiple Olympic gold medals, has been reduced to a shadow of its former self. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has been embroiled in corruption allegations and administrative chaos. As a result, the national team has failed to qualify for major international tournaments, including the Olympics—a humiliating downfall for a nation once considered a powerhouse in the sport.
Cricket, although relatively better managed, has not been immune to controversies and mismanagement. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has frequently been criticized for its erratic decision-making and political interference in player selections and administrative appointments. The recent debacles involving the exclusion of key players from crucial matches and the revolving door of management appointments have only added to the woes.
Other sports, such as athletics, boxing, and squash, have also been neglected. Pakistan, which once produced world champions in squash and boxing, now struggles to even qualify for international events. Athletes often have to bear the cost of their training and travel expenses due to the lack of support from sports authorities. The absence of a coherent sports policy and the failure to invest in infrastructure and talent development have left Pakistan lagging behind its regional and international counterparts.
The consequences of this neglect and mismanagement extend beyond national pride. The suspension by FIFA is not just a sporting embarrassment but also a diplomatic failure. International bans and suspensions tarnish Pakistan’s image on the global stage and discourage foreign investments in the country’s sports sector. They also demoralize young athletes who dream of representing their country on international platforms.
The political interference in sports federations is a key factor behind this dismal state of affairs. Politicians and bureaucrats often occupy key positions in sports bodies, despite lacking the necessary expertise or commitment to the development of sports. Their primary focus remains on consolidating power and influence rather than promoting sports and nurturing talent. This has created a culture of nepotism and corruption, where merit takes a back seat.
To salvage Pakistan’s sports sector, urgent reforms are needed. The government must depoliticize sports federations and ensure that they are run by professionals with a genuine passion for sports. Transparent governance structures should be established, and accountability mechanisms must be put in place to prevent nepotism and mismanagement. Adequate funding must be allocated for the development of sports infrastructure, coaching facilities, and player welfare.
Moreover, international engagement is crucial. Collaborations with global sports organizations and foreign experts can help Pakistan learn from best practices and implement effective strategies for sports development. The suspension by FIFA should be seen as a wake-up call—a chance to introspect and address the root causes of the decline in sports.
The passion for sports among the Pakistani people is undeniable. From the bustling streets of Karachi to the serene valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, young boys and girls dream of donning the national colors and making their country proud. It is the responsibility of the government and sports authorities to provide them with the opportunities and support they need to realize their dreams.
The current state of sports in Pakistan is a national tragedy. The FIFA suspension is just one symptom of a deeper malaise that has afflicted the country’s sports ecosystem. Without immediate and comprehensive reforms, Pakistan risks becoming a pariah in the world of sports, condemned to mediocrity and obscurity.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
