Pakistan has officially begun preparations to host the 14th South Asian Games in March 2027, after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved Rs11 billion for the event. The Games will return to Pakistan for the first time in 22 years, marking a major milestone for the country’s sports sector.
The approved funding will be released in phases and used to upgrade sports venues, improve logistics, organize the opening and closing ceremonies, and cover other operational expenses. Around Rs5 billion is expected to be spent on modernizing sports infrastructure in Lahore and Islamabad, while the remaining amount will support administration, athlete accommodation, transportation, and event management.
A dedicated South Asian Games Secretariat will also be established in Islamabad to oversee planning and coordination. More than 3,500 athletes from eight South Asian countries are expected to compete in 27 sports, with security and hospitality among the government’s top priorities.
Hosting the South Asian Games is expected to boost Pakistan’s sporting image, improve sports facilities, and provide local athletes with the opportunity to compete at home in one of the region’s biggest multi-sport events.
