PSB Restricts Sports Federations from Indian Events

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has prohibited all national sports federations from participating in events hosted in India or committing to competitions scheduled within the country. The decision, announced Saturday, stems from security considerations.

In a formal notification dispatched to the federations, the PSB clarified that any sporting organization must seek guidance and secure authorization from the board before confirming participation in Indian events.

The notification specified, “Considering the current security landscape, the PSB Board, during its 34th meeting on July 23rd, 2025, resolved that no National Sports Federation (NSF) shall pledge to participate in any sporting event in India without first consulting the Pakistan Sports Board.”

The directive mandates that all National Sports Federations (NSF) obtain consent from the PSB prior to contemplating involvement in any event held across the border.

This action follows increasing strain between the two nations, which has frequently impacted the sports sector.

Earlier this month, the Pakistani government chose not to send its national hockey team to India for the upcoming Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament, citing heightened political tensions and significant player safety concerns.

Sources indicate that Pakistan has traditionally separated sports from politics. However, it is alleged that India has politicized sports, fostering an unwelcoming and unsafe atmosphere, especially for visiting Pakistani athletes.

Notably, the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 is slated to occur in Rajgir, India, from August 27 to September 7, 2025.