Pakistan’s sports governance system has long been a subject of criticism for its inefficiency, lack of professionalism, and rampant corruption. Recent revelations by Yasir Pirzada, the Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) have further underscored the dismal state of sports administration in the country. During the briefing, chaired by Sanaullah Mastikhel, glaring issues were highlighted, including the lack of financial transparency, mismanagement in federations, and a complete disregard for the development of sports infrastructure and talent.
Mastikhel, visibly frustrated, pointed out the chronic failures of the PSB and affiliated sports federations. He noted that out of the 44 sports federations in Pakistan, only nine had conducted financial audits, leaving the majority of them operating without accountability. This blatant disregard for financial oversight has paved the way for unchecked corruption and embezzlement of funds. The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was singled out for its ambiguous constitution, repeated failure to hold elections, and lack of an elected governing body. Mastikhel emphasized that these internal conflicts and governance issues have crippled the development of football in Pakistan. The PFF’s inefficiency had already led to Pakistan’s suspension by FIFA in 2021, a move that deprived the country’s players of much-needed international exposure and tarnished its global reputation.
The PSB’s annual budget of PKR 1.7 billion is alarmingly insufficient compared to regional counterparts. For instance, India allocated over PKR 120 billion to its sports sector in 2023, reflecting a stark contrast in priorities. Even this meager allocation in Pakistan is largely consumed by administrative expenses, leaving minimal funds for athlete development, infrastructure enhancement, or international participation. Reports suggest significant portions of the budget are mismanaged or diverted, exacerbating the challenges faced by athletes. Arshad Nadeem’s historic success in the javelin throw serves as a rare bright spot but also underscores the systemic neglect of athletes, as his achievements came despite minimal state support.
Pakistan’s decline in sports is perhaps most visible in disciplines where it once reigned supreme. Squash, a sport in which Pakistan produced legends like Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan, has seen a dramatic fall from grace. Once a dominant force, Pakistan now struggles to even qualify for major international tournaments. A lack of investment in training facilities and the absence of a structured development program have left aspiring squash players without the resources needed to compete on the global stage. Hockey, once the pride of the nation with three Olympic gold medals and four World Cup titles, has similarly suffered due to mismanagement. At the 2023 Asian Games, Pakistan’s hockey team failed to qualify for the semifinals, marking yet another low point in its storied history. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has faced consistent criticism for its inability to implement reforms, compounded by the appointment of unqualified officials and a lack of focus on grassroots development.
Traditional sports like kabaddi and wrestling, which hold cultural significance, have also been neglected. Pakistan’s performance in the Kabaddi World Cup has been underwhelming, and the sport has struggled to gain momentum due to poor organization and the absence of domestic tournaments. Wrestling, another sport with deep historical roots, has similarly suffered. At the 2023 World Wrestling Championships, Pakistan’s athletes failed to secure a single medal, reflecting the dire state of affairs. These failures are not just a reflection of individual shortcomings but of systemic neglect and a lack of vision from governing bodies.
The lack of professional leadership in sports federations is a recurring issue. Many key positions are occupied by retired military officials or politically connected individuals with no background in sports management. This practice has led to poor decision-making and a focus on short-term gains rather than long-term development. For instance, the PHF’s leadership has been criticized for prioritizing personal interests over the sport’s revival, resulting in a steady decline in Pakistan’s international rankings. Similarly, the PFF’s inability to hold elections and its failure to implement a clear governance structure have left football in a perpetual state of chaos.
Corruption remains a pervasive issue across sports federations in Pakistan. The fact that 35 out of 44 federations have not conducted financial audits is a glaring indicator of the lack of accountability. Reports of embezzlement, inflated expenses, and ghost employees are common, yet little action has been taken to address these problems. The IPC committee’s concerns over the PFF’s ambiguous constitution and governance issues are just one example of the broader challenges plaguing Pakistan’s sports sector. Similar problems exist in other federations, where funds meant for athlete development and infrastructure are siphoned off by officials.
The consequences of this neglect and mismanagement are evident in Pakistan’s dismal performance at major international events. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Pakistan failed to win a single medal, a stark reminder of the country’s declining sports standards. In contrast, India won seven medals, including a historic gold in athletics. The 2023 Asian Games were another disappointment, with Pakistan finishing 28th in the medal tally—one of its worst performances in the history of the Games. These failures highlight the lack of preparation, resources, and vision that characterize Pakistan’s approach to sports.
Reviving Pakistan’s sports sector requires a comprehensive overhaul. Financial transparency must be enforced through mandatory audits for all federations, with strict penalties for non-compliance. Leadership positions should be filled by professionals with expertise in sports management, ensuring merit-based appointments and eliminating political interference. The government must significantly increase the sports budget and ensure its efficient utilization, directing funds toward infrastructure development, athlete training, and international exposure. Grassroots programs should be prioritized to nurture young talent, particularly in schools and communities. Dedicated initiatives are also needed to revive traditional sports like kabaddi and wrestling, ensuring their growth and global competitiveness.
Private sector involvement through corporate sponsorships and partnerships can provide additional resources for sports development. Companies should be incentivized to invest in sports, creating opportunities for athletes and enhancing the country’s sports infrastructure. Additionally, the establishment of high-performance centers with state-of-the-art facilities can help athletes prepare for international competitions. These centers should be staffed with qualified coaches and support staff, providing athletes with the resources they need to excel.
Pakistan’s sports sector is at a critical juncture. The systemic neglect, corruption, and lack of accountability that have plagued the country’s sports federations cannot be allowed to continue. The revelations presented to the National Assembly Standing Committee on IPC should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders. By implementing reforms and prioritizing transparency and professionalism, Pakistan can reclaim its position as a competitive sporting nation. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but the potential rewards—for the country’s athletes and its global reputation—make it a cause worth pursuing. The time for action is now, before the nation’s rich sporting legacy fades into obscurity.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.