Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming Asian Games 2026 has been reduced from 123 to 80 participants due to a lack of funds and apathy from the sports governing body. The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has instructed federations to cut their squads or secure their own funding for the event in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Athletes are now facing the challenge of finding financial support to compete in the Games.
The PSB’s decision has left many athletes in a difficult position, with some having to arrange funds independently to participate. The Pakistan Table Tennis Federation has already informed its players to seek their own finances for the Games. The PSB is reportedly struggling to secure additional funds, impacting various sports federations and athletes.
The recent budget allocation from the PSB, mainly for the Pakistan Hockey Federation, has led to the reduction in the Asian Games contingent. The Pakistan Olympic Association has obtained accreditation for 123 athletes, but many are now seeking sponsorships for themselves. The slashing of the contingent has affected several sports, including boxing, kabaddi, shooting, and volleyball, jeopardizing medal hopes.
The Pakistan Athletics Federation is also exploring sponsorship opportunities for its athletes after facing a significant cut in the number of participants. Despite prior commitments, financial support for wrestling, weightlifting, table tennis, and tennis has been completely withdrawn. Pakistan, with a history of 14 gold, 12 silver, and 13 bronze medals in the Asian Games, faces challenges in preparing its athletes for the upcoming event.
