Sports Bulletin

Islamabad(SBR): In a prestigious ceremony held on Wednesday, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) paid tribute to national heroes who made the country proud through their outstanding performances in international competitions.Advisor to the Prime Minister on Inter-Provincial Coordination, Rana Sanaullah Khan, graced the event along with Federal Secretary Mohiuddin Wani and Director General PSB Muhammad Yasir Pirzada. A total of Rs. 8.2 million in cash awards was distributed among 36 athletes who excelled in various global events.Among the recipients, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem stood out with a Rs. 2 million award for winning a gold medal, while his coach Salman Iqbal Butt received Rs. 600,000. In snooker, Ahsan Ramzan was given Rs. 500,000 for securing a bronze medal in the U-21 Asian Championship, Muhammad Asif was awarded Rs. 500,000 for a gold medal at the SAARC Snooker Championship, and Muhammad Naseem Akhtar received Rs. 100,000 for his bronze medal.In table tennis, Abdal Muhammad Khan earned Rs. 250,000 for a silver medal in the U-15 singles category, while he and Zunaira Khan received Rs. 187,500 each for their silver medal in the U-15 mixed doubles event. For the U-15 boys’ doubles and U-15/U-19 team events, Abdal and his teammates — Noor Khan, Taha Bilal, Abu Huraira, Attaul Manan, and Moosa Asif — were awarded Rs. 75,000 each.Special Olympics athletes were also honored for their performances in the World Winter Games. Abdul Saboor Ahmad received Rs. 250,000 for a gold medal in the 400m Snowshoeing event and Rs. 100,000 for a bronze in the 200m event. Muhammad Afaq Khan and Mohammad Moazzam Iqbal were awarded Rs. 250,000 each for gold in their respective events, while Muneeb ur Rehman was honored with Rs. 250,000 for each of his gold medals in 50m and 100m Cross Country Skiing. Relay team members — Abdul Saboor, Afaq, Moazzam, and Ali Raza — were each given Rs. 150,000, as were Minahil, Raveena Qurban, Iqra Akram, Shah Galoon Hayat, and Tabassum for their team contributions.As part of the federation grants phase, the PSB awarded Rs. 63.9 million to 22 national sports federations under annual and special grant categories. The Athletics Federation of Pakistan received Rs. 10 million, Alpine Club of Pakistan was given Rs. 2.1 million, and Pakistan Badminton Federation was awarded Rs. 1.1 million. The Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation received Rs. 2.5 million, and the Pakistan Handball Federation was provided a special grant of Rs. 5 million.Further allocations included Rs. 1 million to Pakistan Judo Federation, Rs. 2 million to Pakistan Ju-Jitsu Federation, and Rs. 3 million to Pakistan Karate Federation. The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation received Rs. 3 million, and the National Rifle Association was allocated Rs. 7 million (including Rs. 2 million as annual and Rs. 5 million as special grant). Pakistan Rugby Union was given Rs. 1.1 million, Winter Sports Federation Pakistan received Rs. 2 million, and the Pakistan Sailing Federation received Rs. 1 million.Among others, the Pakistan Squash Federation was allocated Rs. 5 million, Pakistan Swimming Federation and Pakistan Table Tennis Federation were each granted Rs. 2.25 million, Pakistan Taekwondo Federation received Rs. 1.1 million, and Pakistan Tennis Federation got Rs. 1 million. The Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation received Rs. 2.5 million, while the Pakistan Volleyball Federation and Pakistan Wrestling Federation were awarded Rs. 5 million and Rs. 3 million, respectively. The Pakistan Wushu Federation received Rs. 1 million.In total, the Pakistan Sports Board disbursed Rs. 32.9 million in annual grants and Rs. 31 million in special grants, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting national sports, rewarding athletes, and strengthening the country’s sports infrastructure through consistent financial assistance.

Islamabad (PR): The Islamabad Padel Association (IPA) successfully held its first Executive Committee meeting today in Islamabad to discuss strategic developments, future events and the overall promotion of padel in the region.The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the Association Mubeen Arif Jutt and Presided by the President Sohaib Hassan and attended by senior office-bearers including the Vice President Amin Ul Hafeez, Women Vice President Sahiba Anwar, General Secretary Abdul Jabbar and Treasurer Fahad Ali. Meeting started with the recitation of the holy Quran followed introduction of the newly elected members and welcome address by the President. Key items on the agenda included the discussion on the structing of the association, finalization of upcoming tournament schedules, infrastructure challenges in the twin cities, establishment of local committees, activity calendar and collaboration opportunities with local and international entities to encourage padel in the city.In his opening remarks, the President of the Association highlighted the rapid growth of padel in Pakistan, especially among youth in the capital and emphasized the need to enhance the sport’s visibility and access at all levels. He thanked Pakistan Padel Federation for ensuring merit in formation of body in Islamabad region.The Chairman added that currently padel seems to be a sport for ‘elites’ it should be promoted and developed in such a way that it should be accessible for all classes of the society. Only then we will be able to bring out the true talent in this sport for our country.Speaking after the meeting, General Secretary Abdul Jabbar said, “This session marks an important step in our mission to establish Islamabad as a national hub for padel. The Executive Committee is committed to building a sustainable and inclusive framework for the game’s future.” 

 ISLAMABAD(PR): Pakistan marked World Olympic Day 2025 with a vibrant and spirited celebration at Rawal Lake, reflecting the nation’s strong commitment to the Olympic values of unity, excellence, and friendship.Under the umbrella of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), the event was hosted by the Islamabad Olympic Association (IOA). The celebration was attended by prominent Olympians including Sadaf Siddiqui, Ahmad Ali, and Liaquat Ali; IOA Secretary General and Chairman of the Pakistan Rowing Federation Rizwan ul Haq Razi; Army Sports Directorate officials Major Irfan Younis and Major Naveed; as well as national athletes, children, and guests from diverse walks of life.To mark the occasion, a walk and a lively "fun run" were held, with enthusiastic participation from children. A specially designed Olympic-themed cake, featuring the iconic Olympic rings, was also cut to commemorate the day.Celebrated globally on June 23 each year, Olympic Day honors the founding of the modern Olympic Games, first held in Paris in 1894. It serves as a worldwide reminder of the Olympic ideals and encourages the promotion of sports, physical fitness, and unity through inclusive community engagement.Across Pakistan, thousands participated in a variety of activities organized to celebrate the day, including fun runs, cultural performances, exhibitions, music events, tree plantation drives, beach clean-up campaigns, and educational seminars.The Pakistan Olympic Association continues to observe Olympic Day annually, reinforcing its commitment to the Olympic Movement and the promotion of healthy, active lifestyles and inclusivity through sport.

LAHORE: (PR): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Ali has said that sports competitions play a role in promoting discipline among students along with mental and physical development. He was addressing at the prize distribution ceremony of the 124th Intercollegiate Championships 2024-25 organized by the Punjab University Sports Department. The ceremony was attended by PU Director Sports Dr Shabbir Sarwar, Dean Faculty of Law Dr Shazia Noreen Qureshi, Principal Oriental College Dr Nabila Rehman, Principal Hailey College of Commerce Prof Dr Hafiz Zafar Ahmed, social worker Raja Munawar, various heads of government and private colleges, faculty members and a large number students. In his address, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Ali said that the Quaid-e-Azam’s statement that faith, unity and discipline are the guarantee of a successful life. He said that the success in the recent Operation Banyan Marsus is also a clear proof of the unity and discipline of the nation. Dr Shabbir Sarwar said that we will soon organize a talent hunt program from colleges so that more good talent emerges at the divisional and university levels. He said that under the leadership of Dr Mohammad Ali, the Department of Sports of Punjab University will continue to play its role in the promotion of sports. Later, the Vice Chancellor presented souvenirs to the successful players.

Rawalpindi(Sports Bulletin Report):The Pakistan Cricket Board has officially announced the dedication of the Pakistan Super League to the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan.In a statement they said that We proudly dedicate the Pakistan Super League to our brave Armed Forces who continue to safeguard the nation's integrity with courage and commitment.According to the PCB, today’s matches and ceremonies will honor the Pakistan Army, while tomorrow will be dedicated to the Pakistan Navy, and Monday to the Pakistan Air Force.The decision has been widely welcomed by fans and the cricketing community as a tribute to the sacrifices and unwavering service of the Armed Forces.

Islamabad (Sports Desk):Pakistan Anushe Engineer, who write for an English Daily, has clinched the award for the best writer, amongst the young sports journalists, and became the first Pakistani to achieve this honour.The award was presented at the AIPS annual conference at Rabat, Morocco. Secretary AIPS Asia, Amjad Aziz Malik along with delegates from 110 countries presented at the event.Anushe Engineer penned a piece on Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem which was published in the daily Dawn newspaper, Karachi.AIPS received more than 2000 nominations which were thoroughly reviewed, over five months, by 40 judges from different countries. It is pertinent to note Anushe Engineer is the first Pakistani to achieve this outstanding feat in 100-year history of the AIPS.Meanwhile President PSWF & Secretary AIPS Amjad Aziz Malik, Secretary PSWF Asghar Azeem and cabinet members paid rich tribute to Anushe Engineer.Amjad Aziz Malik said this achievement has brightened up Pakistan’s name, in this particular field. He hope, Anusha’s feat will further enhance Pakistan’s positive and peaceful image around the world. PSWF secretary Asghar Azeem was of the opinion that Anushe’s triumph is indication of world’s recognition for top-class journalism in Pakistan.

Islamabad (Mohammad Azam Dar):The Executive Committee meeting of the Islamabad Olympic Association was held at a local hotel, Islamabad, under the chairmanship of Begum Ishrat Ashraf, President of the Association. The meeting brought together key office bearers including Mohammad Sarwar Rana, Senior Vice President; Rizwan ul Haq, Secretary General; Ijaz ul Haq, Treasurer; and members of the Executive Committee.The primary agenda of the meeting was Islamabad’s preparation and participation in the upcoming National Games, scheduled to be held in Karachi in May 2025. The Executive Committee reviewed organizational matters and resolved to ensure full participation and effective representation of Islamabad athletes at the prestigious national event.To streamline preparations and promote effective coordination, the Association announced the formation of the following committees:Sports Commission chaired by Mohammad Sarwar Rana, to oversee athlete preparation and coordination with affiliated sports bodies.Marketing and Sponsorship Committee chaired by Ejaz Rafi Butt, to explore sponsorship opportunities and develop strategic partnerships.Finance Committee chaired by Sadaf Parveen, to manage budget planning and ensure transparent financial operations.President Begum Ishrat Ashraf emphasized the importance of providing Islamabad’s athletes with all necessary support and expressed confidence that the capital’s contingent will perform with excellence at the National Games.The Islamabad Olympic Association remains committed to the promotion and development of sports in the region and ensuring that local athletes are empowered to achieve their highest potential.

Islamabad (Sports Desk): Paraguay has become the second South American country to host the World Skate Games 2026, officially announced on Friday. The announcement comes after the official signing of the contract between World Skate and Paraguayan authorities, in the presence of the President of the Republic Santiago Peña, World Skate President Sabatino Aracu, and numerous personalities from the national and international sports world.The ceremony saw the participation of key figures such as Francesco Zangarini, World Skate Sports Director, Facundo Cernadas, Chief of Staff, Camilo Pérez López Moreira, IOC member and President of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee, César Ramírez, Minister of Sports, and Víctor Pecci, former tennis player and Roland Garros finalist in 1979, now Director General of the Organising Committee for Mega Sporting Events in Paraguay.Negotiations to secure WSG Asunción 2026 were initiated in Lausanne by President Peña’s personal delegation, demonstrating the commitment of Paraguay’s government to attracting international sporting events and developing the domestic service economies which they support.This marks the continuation of the World Skate Games global journey, which has previously been hosted in Nanjing, Republic People of China (2017), Barcelona, Spain (2019), Buenos Aires, Argentina (2022), and most recently across four regions of Italy (2024). Paraguay will become the second South American nation to host this prestigious event, following Argentina's successful organization in 2022.Following the tremendous success of the World Skate Games Italy 2024, which represented an unprecedented event for the World Skate disciplines with 154 world titles awarded, 10,800 athletes and staff, 90 participating countries, the event is preparing for its next chapter in Paraguay.Sabatino Aracu, President of World Skate and Skate Italia, stated: "After the Italian success, we are excited to bring the World Skate Games to Paraguay. This event will not only be the World Championship of Roller Sports but a true youth festival that combines sports, music, and entertainment, bringing competitions to the heart of cities and creating a unique experience for athletes and spectators."The choice of Paraguay as the host of the next World Skate Games represents an important step in the global expansion strategy of sports on skating wheels and confirms the South American country's commitment to sports development and the attraction of major international events.The World Skate Games will once again bring together 12 disciplines in one major event, from urban sports such as skateboarding (the Olympic discipline), roller freestyle, and scootering, to speed and adrenaline sports like inline speed skating and downhill, to team sports such as rink hockey, inline hockey, and roller derby, not to mention the beloved artistic roller skating.

Islamabad (Sports Desk): The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB) today agreed to accept the resignation of IOC President Thomas Bach as an IOC Member, effective after 23 June 2025. This will be the day of the handover to the new IOC President, who will be elected on 20 March 2025 in Costa Navarino, Greece.President Bach tendered his resignation this week to the IOC EB following his announcement at the IOC Session in Paris that he would not seek an extension to his presidency despite calls from IOC Members to do so. Thomas Bach was elected on 10 September 2013, as the ninth President of the IOC. He was re-elected for a second four-year term on 10 March 2021.Bach became an Olympic champion when he won a gold medal with his team in foil fencing at the Games of the XXI Olympiad in Montreal in 1976. In 2006, he was elected as the founding President of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB).Bach was an athletes’ representative at the XI Olympic Congress in Baden-Baden (1981) and a founding member of the IOC Athletes’ Commission. He was elected as an IOC Member in 1991, and as a member of the IOC Executive Board in 1996, and served as an IOC Vice-President for more than 10 years. He has also chaired several IOC commissions.

Islamabad (Sports Desk): World Skate announced the appointment of Brazilian skateboarding superstar Letícia Bufoni to the Executive Board as Chair of the International Skateboarding Technical Commission (ISTC). The most successful female skateboarder of all time, Letícia is one of the highest-profile skaters in the world.Five-time X Games gold medallist, Tokyo Olympian, Guinness Book of World Records- holder, youth mentor; Letícia was a natural choice for appointment to the role by World Skate President Sabatino Aracu.Leticia’s role as Chair of the International Skateboarding Technical Commission will be both to advise on operational aspects of the World Skateboarding Tour such as contest formats, point allocations and rankings- as well as representing the views and ideas of the five continental Chairpeople who do likewise for their regions. The role carries full voting rights within our Executive Board, of which she becomes a member.Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of skateboarding?Skateboarding will keep growing. More skaters, more parks, more events. People are getting better, and tricks are getting crazier. I think we’ll see more new spots, new styles, and just more people having fun with it.In your view, what has been the most significant impact of Olympic inclusion on the sport's development and recognition?The Olympics put skateboarding on a bigger stage. It got more kids into it, brought in new sponsors, and gave skaters from different places more chances to compete. It also showed people that skateboarding is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life.You've been breaking barriers in skateboarding for years. What advice would you give to young girls who dream of following in your footsteps, especially in countries where female skateboarding is still emerging?Just go for it. Skate as much as you can, don’t listen to people who say you can’t, and have fun. If you love it and put in the time, you’ll get better. Find people to skate with, post your clips, and keep pushing yourself.As the new Chair of World Skate's International Skateboarding Technical Commission, what are your main objectives and goals for the next four years with the World Skateboarding Tour up to LA28?I want to help grow skateboarding everywhere. More events, more places to skate, and more kids getting into it. I also want to make contests better for the skaters and fans. The goal is to keep skateboarding fun and help it keep progressing leading up to LA28.