Pakistan is preparing to host the 14th South Asian Games in March 2027, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approving 11 Billion rupees in funding for the major sports event.
The approved 11 Billion budget will be used for stadium upgrades, logistics, opening and closing ceremonies, and administrative arrangements. Officials said the funds will be released in different phases to ensure smooth preparations.
Sources said the prime minister has directed authorities to begin preparations immediately. A special South Asian Games Secretariat will also be established in Islamabad to manage and coordinate all arrangements for the event.
This will be the first time in 22 years that Pakistan hosts the South Asian Games. Officials said the return of the event is an important moment for the country’s sports sector.
The competitions will be held in Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad. Authorities confirmed that the venues in these cities are already operational and will be further upgraded under the 11 Billion development plan.
More than 3,500 athletes from eight South Asian countries are expected to participate. The event will feature 27 sports disciplines, including major participation from India and Afghanistan.
Security is also a major priority for the event. Officials said Games Villages will be built under strict security measures to ensure the safety of athletes, officials, and guests.
The opening ceremony, planned in Lahore, is expected to be one of the biggest highlights of the Games. It is likely to attract strong viewership from across South Asia.
Sports officials believe the South Asian Games will provide Pakistan with a major chance to showcase its sports infrastructure and event management capabilities. It will also help strengthen regional ties through sports.
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The event is seen as an important platform for young and emerging athletes. With the approval of 11 Billion in federal funding, preparations have officially started for what could become one of the region’s biggest sporting events in 2027.
