Pakistan Athletes Left in Limbo After PSB Slashes Asian Games Squad

Pakistan’s preparations for the 2026 Asian Games have suffered a major setback after the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) reduced the country’s proposed contingent from 123 members to just 80, less than three months before the event begins in Japan.

The Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Nagoya from September 19 to October 4. The decision has left several athletes frustrated and uncertain, especially those who had already started full-scale preparations after receiving official clearance earlier this year.

According to a report by The News, documents available to the publication show that the PSB had informed national sports federations on January 20, 2026, that athletes and officials could begin preparations for the Games.

The report added that following the approval, athletes adjusted their training schedules, planned competitions, and committed themselves to the event.

However, the PSB issued another letter on June 17, cutting the size of the contingent and withdrawing financial support from several athletes, coaches, and support staff who had previously been cleared.

The move has caused concern because the entire 123-member contingent had already been accredited through the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA). The POA had secured participation slots and official accreditation from the Nagoya organizers on the basis of the approved list.

Athletics has been among the hardest-hit disciplines. The PSB had earlier assured support for 12 track and field athletes, but that number has now been reduced to six.

The cuts have also affected boxing, kabaddi, shooting, and volleyball, while financial support for wrestling, weightlifting, and tennis has been withdrawn altogether despite earlier commitments.

The decision is particularly significant because many of these sports have historically brought medals for Pakistan at the Asian Games.

Athletics remains the country’s most successful discipline at the event, with 14 gold, 12 silver, and 13 bronze medals. Boxing has won six gold, eight silver, and 14 bronze medals, while wrestling has secured two gold, five silver, and 13 bronze medals. Squash has also contributed four gold, five silver, and five bronze medals.

Several support staff positions in sports such as squash and kabaddi have also been removed, raising concerns over athlete preparation and performance support during the Games.

Sports experts believe the late change could damage athlete morale and confidence, especially for those who have spent years preparing for the opportunity to represent Pakistan at the continental level.