LAHORE: Pakistan will host the 14th edition of the South Asian Games from March 23 to 31, 2027, following a decision at a recent meeting of South Asian sports federations in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has been authorised to make schedule adjustments within a one-week flexibility for operational or logistical reasons.
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The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and was chaired by HRH Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, OCA Vice-President for South Asia. Representatives from all South Asian National Olympic Committees, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, participated.
Hosting rights retained! 😍
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POA President Arif Saeed and Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, represented Pakistan at the gathering. The meeting also celebrated Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s election as President of the OCA.
While all participating countries agreed to maintain the previously finalised disciplines and events for the Games, India’s participation remains uncertain due to longstanding political tensions with Pakistan.
The meeting emphasised the need for a more sustainable, future-oriented sports model in South Asia, focusing on long-term regional cooperation and efficient organisation of multi-sport events. Pakistan extended an invitation to South Asian countries to visit in May 2026 to monitor preparations for the 2027 Games and continue consultations for enhanced collaboration in regional sport.
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The South Asian Games, held every few years, bring together athletes from the region in a multi-sport event, fostering competition, camaraderie, and regional cooperation. Hosting the Games is seen as a significant opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its sporting infrastructure and organisational capabilities.