India has agreed in principle to participate in the 2027 South Asian Games in Pakistan, according to the Pakistan Olympic Association, potentially paving the way for a sizeable Indian sporting contingent to travel across the border next year. Pakistan Olympic Association Secretary General Khalid Mehmood said India had accepted the invitation at the regional Olympic level and was expected to provide details of its contingent in January 2027. The Games are scheduled to be staged across Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar in April.
The Games programme includes athletics, archery, badminton, basketball, boxing, cricket, football, hockey, kabaddi, shooting, swimming, tennis, wrestling, weightlifting and several other Olympic and regional sports. Security has emerged as a major component of Pakistan ‘s preparations. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has chaired a steering committee meeting reviewing accommodation, transportation, medical facilities, venues and security arrangements. Provincial authorities have been directed to ensure comprehensive security for visiting athletes, officials, journalists and spectators from arrival until departure.
Earlier SAOC planning documents projected around 3,200 athletes and approximately 4,200 overall participants, while Pakistani authorities have since said more than 6,000 athletes and officials could be involved. Pakistan last hosted the South Asian Games in Islamabad in 2004. The 2027 edition will therefore mark the tournament’s return to the country after 23 years, provided the repeatedly delayed event proceeds according to its latest schedule.
