India has reportedly confirmed its participation for the 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan, agreeing to send a contingent next year. This decision is monumental given the strained relations between the two neighbors.
As anticipation for the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games heightens, host Pakistan has received the monumental task of hosting the tournament. The stakes have now risen as India has reportedly agreed to participate in the regional multi-sport athletic event and will send a contingent next year.
The SAF Games would mark its return to Pakistan after over two decades, and athletes from the South Asian region are expected to participate in the event, which will take place across cities such as Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar in 2027.
Geopolitical and sporting ties between India and Pakistan have sunk to their lowest point since last yearโs Pahalgam terror attacks, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
India ‘gives consent’ to send athletes to Pakistan
According to The News Pakistan, Khalid Mehmood, secretary general of the Pakistan Olympic Association, confirmed that India was represented at a highโlevel South Asian Olympic Association meeting, where it accepted the invitation to participate in the Games.
Mehmood added that India had ‘given its consent at the relevant regional sporting level,‘ and details of the Indian contingent would be revealed in January 2027.
Security a key aspect ahead of 2027 SAF Games
The report added that Pakistan has stepped up preparations for the upcoming multi-sport athletic event, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hosting a high-level meeting to review the arrangements, including security, accommodation, medical facilities, transportation and the sporting venue’s preparedness.
More from SportsSecurity has been a key priority, as the athletic event is expected to have thousands of people, including athletes, coaches, officials, and support staff visiting Pakistan for the SAF 2027 Games.
The 2027 SAF Games are said to feature competitions across 28 disciplines, with Islamabad hosting 15 games such as tennis, squash and martial arts. Lahore will host ten disciplines, such as swimming, hockey and cricket, while Peshawar will host three competitions.ย ย ย