The international suspension imposed on the Pakistan Weightlifting Federation (PWLF) has officially ended, marking a fresh start for the sport in the country. The one?year sanction issued by the International Weightlifting Federation’s Independent Member Federations Sanctioning Panel (IMFSP) expired on June 20, 2026, clearing the way for the federation to reengage with regional and global bodies.
The suspension stemmed from findings announced on June 20, 2025, when the IMFSP-chaired by Antonio Rigozzi with members Stephen Bock and Mario Vigna-determined that the PWLF had breached Article 12.3.2 of the IWF Anti?Doping Rules and provisions of the Olympic Qualification System for Paris 2024. Those violations, which occurred under the federation’s previous administration (2021-2025), resulted in a one year ban on international participation.
During the suspension, PWLF officials say the federation did not remain idle. In an official communique signed by General Secretary Sidra Gul, the PWLF outlined a comprehensive Anti?Doping Education and Awareness Program that was implemented nationwide. The programme targeted athletes, coaches, officials and support staff with testing, education and guidance designed to strengthen anti?doping compliance and restore confidence in the sport’s governance.
Looking ahead, the PWLF has announced plans to intensify its anti doping efforts beginning August 2026, with renewed emphasis on testing, education and strict enforcement. Under the leadership of President Jabran Bin Salman and General Secretary Sidra Gul, the federation is urging all stakeholders-regional associations, departments, coaches and athletes-to support a zero tolerance approach to prohibited substances and methods.
The PWLF also stressed its commitment to transparency and institutional reform. Officials said stringent monitoring mechanisms will be introduced to ensure registered weightlifters remain free from banned substances, and that development programmes will focus on legitimate athletic progression rather than short term gains. The federation warned against misinformation and urged the weightlifting community to reject distractions that could undermine unity and progress.
Reaffirming its status, the PWLF stated it remains the sole constitutionally validated and internationally affiliated governing body for weightlifting in Pakistan. The federation said it will continue close cooperation with the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), the Asian Weightlifting Federation (AWF) and the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) to rebuild infrastructure, enhance athlete welfare and restore Pakistan’s competitive standing on the international stage.
Officials described the end of the suspension as an opportunity to reset and rebuild. With a clear anti doping roadmap and renewed institutional focus, the PWLF aims to demonstrate that Pakistan weightlifting can move forward on a foundation of clean sport and sustainable development.