ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), the sole representative of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in the country, capped off a landmark year in 2025 by successfully achieving all the targets set at the start of the year, highlighted by the smooth and historic hosting of the 35th National Games in close coordination with the Sindh Government.
Widely termed as one of the busiest and most productive years for the POA over the past decade, 2025 witnessed an intense calendar packed with national and international sporting commitments. Alongside Pakistan’s participation in major multi-sport events abroad, the POA efficiently managed the complex task of staging the National Games, while simultaneously organising high-profile international ceremonial events such as the Torch and King’s Baton Relay for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The flawless execution of these activities not only reflected strong planning and coordination but also underlined the POA’s growing stature within the global Olympic movement. Securing what officials described as “the best possible deal” from the IOC for Pakistan further strengthened the country’s sporting framework and future prospects.
“All commitments were completed with utmost precision under the dynamic leadership of POA President Arif Saeed,” said Mohammad Khalid Mehmood, Secretary POA, while speaking to The News. “The manner in which Pakistan welcomed and celebrated the King’s Baton Relay of the 2026 Commonwealth Games earned glowing praise from the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee.
The appreciation we received was truly encouraging.” The successful conduct of the National Games, bringing together athletes from across the country, also served as a major boost for domestic sports, providing a competitive platform for emerging talent and reinforcing inter-provincial harmony. “Our shared aim remains simple: to support athletes and develop sport in a way that reflects the values we all believe in. Throughout the year, Pakistan was represented in major international multi-sport events, including the 9th Asian
Winter Games in Harbin (China), the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, and the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in
Riyadh (KSA). Nationally, we supported the successful delivery of the 35th National Games in Karachi: a major milestone that brought together athletes from across the country in a spirit of competition, excellence, and unity. It was inspiring to see young athletes from across Pakistan compete in the true spirit of Olympism, with dedication, respect, and unity.” The POA Secretary said that athlete-focused initiatives during the year, including structured learning placements, engagement forums, and integrity education.
“Many of these were held alongside the National Games and its Torch Relay, which travelled across Pakistan to connect people with sport and the Olympic Values.
To support athlete preparation for the LA28 Olympic Games, the IOC approved Olympic Solidarity scholarships for selected Pakistani athletes.
Each recipient will receive USD 13,500 per year from September 2025 to August 2028, supporting their training, qualification, and competition readiness. In a further step, the POA secured an IOC Olympic Solidarity Team Support Grant for the Pakistan Volleyball Federation, amounting to USD 100,000 over four years. This funding will help develop athletes and strengthen volleyball nationally.”
Mohammad Khalid said that in 2025 the POA also hosted the King’s Baton Relay in Pakistan as part of the Commonwealth Games build-up, a moment of shared connection with the global sporting community and recognition of Pakistan’s ongoing engagement in international sport. “On the development side, 23 Pakistani professionals participated in international capacity-building programmes supported by the POA. These focused on coaching, administration, innovation, safeguarding, Olympic education, and leadership. This growing network of trained individuals is key to building a stronger, more ethical sports system across the country.”
He emphasized on the success of international coordination. “Regular coordination with key national stakeholders also continued, including preparations for the National Youth Games and Pakistan’s hosting of the 14th South Asian Games. Pakistan actively participated in the General Assembly Meetings of the Olympic Council of Asia, the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association and the Commonwealth Games Federation held in 2025.
Regionally, we deepened collaboration with South Asian counterparts. Pakistan hosted the South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee in February 2025 and remained engaged with regional partners throughout the year. These efforts are helping ensure Pakistan’s readiness and commitment as host of the 14th South Asian Games.”
“On behalf of the Olympic family, we express our sincere gratitude to the Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan, H.E. Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, for his continued support, particularly his commitment to empowering youth and his guidance in advancing the development of elite athletes with the aim of bringing honour to the nation.”
