Pakistan Olympic Association Proposes Qatar-Style Funding Model for National Sports Overhaul

The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has proposed a new funding framework for national sports federations based on Qatar’s sports model.

The association plans to present its recommendations to the government under the proposed National Sports Policy 2026.

According to officials, the aim is to distribute grants based on performance instead of individual influence.

Draft Policy Shared With Federations

The government has already circulated an initial draft of the new sports policy.

It has been sent to national sports federations for feedback.

As a result, consultations are now underway across the sports sector.

POA Calls for Government-Federation Cooperation

POA President Arif Saeed said progress in sports depends on coordination between the government and federations.

He made the remarks at a press conference in Lahore on Sunday.

In addition, he said the POA has already prepared a detailed funding proposal.

He thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for initiating the new policy process.

Grants to Be Linked With Performance

Arif Saeed said the proposed model is based on Qatar’s system.

Under this plan, federations would receive funding based on activity and results.

Furthermore, he said grants should not depend on personalities or influence.

He proposed dividing federations into A, B and C categories.

This classification would depend on the quality and volume of their activities.

According to him, many federations currently hold only one senior and one junior championship per year.

As a result, he said performance-based funding is necessary.

Concerns Over Implementation of Budget Allocations

The draft policy also suggests that governments allocate two percent of development budgets to sports.

Arif Saeed welcomed the proposal.

However, he warned that similar commitments in other sectors often remain unimplemented.

Therefore, he urged authorities to ensure practical execution.

Youth Development Highlighted

Meanwhile, the POA president stressed the importance of youth competitions.

He said regular tournaments can help identify new talent.

In addition, he pointed to cricket’s Under-19 system as a successful example.

He said several players have moved directly from junior levels to the national team.

OCA Delegation Visits Lahore

An Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) delegation is currently in Lahore.

The team is supervising preparations for a Fun Run linked to the 20th Asian Games.

The event will take place in Japan in September next year.

The Fun Run will be held at Lahore College for Women University on Monday.

Activities Promote Olympic Values

OCA delegation head Hiroshi Sakai said the event promotes unity and friendship.

He said it also encourages healthy living across Asia.

In addition, he said the initiative connects athletes, students and communities.

He praised Pakistan’s preparations for the event.

Youth Art Competition Highlights Engagement

A painting competition was also held at the POA headquarters.

Students from across Pakistan participated in the activity.

A total of 156 artworks were submitted.

A committee shortlisted four entries.

These works will be displayed at the Asian Games.

Pakistan Plans Large Contingent for Asian Games

Meanwhile, POA Secretary Khalid Mahmood said Pakistan will send a large delegation to the Games.

He said the Pakistan Sports Board will sponsor 123 athletes and officials.

In addition, 23 federations have already confirmed participation.

Several others will join on a self-finance basis.

Overall, between 235 and 250 participants are expected.

The 20th Asian Games will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, next year