LAHORE - Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) President Arif Saeed announced on Monday that the upcoming National Games in Karachi have been postponed, citing concerns over the expected heatwave and athlete welfare. Speaking during a press conference held at the POA House in Lahore, Arif Saeed said the decision was taken after careful consideration of environmental and logistical factors. “The health and well-being of the athletes is our top priority. Given the severe heat conditions anticipated in Karachi, postponing the event was necessary,” he said.
He further revealed that the final dates for the National Games will be decided in May, with ongoing discussions underway with the Sindh government. “We are in close coordination with Sindh authorities and are hopeful that they will successfully host the National Games in October or November this year with exceptional arrangements,” he added. Responding to a question, the POA chief emphasized that hosting rights and honors of the Games must be awarded to provinces, not departments. “Provinces are better equipped to organize such multi-sport events with broader infrastructure and logistical support,” Arif Saeed remarked.
He also announced that Pakistan is planning to hold its first-ever Youth Games in September, which will feature athletes aged between 14 to 17 years from across the country. “This new initiative aims to nurture young talent and promote grassroots sports in line with international standards,” he said. Arif Saeed appreciated the government’s increasing commitment to sports development, saying, “The state fully understands the importance of sports in enhancing Pakistan’s global stature and unity.”
