Sports in Pakistan
Sports have always held a significant place in the cultural and social fabric of Pakistan, serving not only as a source of recreation and national pride but also as a unifying force across provinces and ethnicities. Since its inception in 1947, Pakistan has developed a diverse sporting culture influenced by British colonial heritage, indigenous traditions, and modern global trends. The most prominent sport in the country is cricket, which enjoys overwhelming popularity nationwide and is considered a near-religious passion for many. However, Pakistan also boasts strong traditions in field hockey, squash, and wrestling, with several world titles and Olympic medals to its name.
Regionally, the distribution of sports varies significantly. Cricket dominates across all provinces, but especially in Punjab and Sindh, where over 45% and 30% of organized sports activities take place, respectively. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) is renowned for traditional games such as wrestling (kushti) and martial arts, as well as for producing athletes in boxing and athletics. Balochistan, despite its infrastructural challenges, contributes notably to sports like football and mountain-based adventure sports. Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir are hubs for winter sports, such as skiing and ice hockey, owing to their unique geography. Additionally, indigenous sports like kabaddi, tug of war, and tent pegging maintain a strong grassroots following, especially in rural Punjab and interior Sindh.
The Government of Pakistan, through organizations like the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and various provincial bodies, continues to support the development of sports infrastructure and talent. Moreover, the private sector and military institutions have also played pivotal roles in nurturing athletes at national and international levels.
List of Sports in Pakistan
1. Archery
Archery is a developing sport in Pakistan, gradually gaining popularity, particularly among youth and university students. Governed by the Pakistan Archery Federation, the sport has seen structured efforts to promote it through national championships and training workshops. Archery is most actively practiced in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where sports institutions have introduced it at school and college levels. Although Pakistan is yet to make a significant mark in international archery competitions, the sport holds promise due to growing grassroots interest and institutional support from the Pakistan Sports Board.
2. Athletics (Track and Field)
Athletics is one of the most fundamental sports in Pakistan and is governed by the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP). It encompasses a wide range of disciplines including running, jumping, and throwing events. Historically, Pakistani athletes have achieved success in regional competitions such as the South Asian Games, winning medals in events like javelin throw, shot put, and sprints.
Athletics is particularly popular in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where around 50% of Pakistan’s national track and field athletes originate. These regions host regular inter-district and inter-school competitions. Military and civil institutions also play a crucial role in nurturing athletes through structured training and employment. Despite the lack of Olympic medals, there is growing potential, especially after international recognition of javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who placed fifth in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
3. Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding has a strong and passionate following in Pakistan, particularly in urban centers like Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar. The sport is regulated by the Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation, which organizes national championships and sends athletes to compete in Asian and World Bodybuilding Championships.
The sport enjoys popularity at the grassroots level due to cultural ideals of physical strength and masculinity. Punjab is considered the hub of bodybuilding, contributing over 60% of top-tier national athletes. Pakistani bodybuilders have brought home several medals from international events, especially in categories such as Mr. Asia and Mr. South Asia. Local gyms, although often under-resourced, remain central to talent development across the country.
Bowling
Bowling, particularly ten-pin bowling, is a relatively modern and recreational sport in Pakistan that has gained popularity among the youth and urban middle class over the past two decades. The sport was introduced primarily through private entertainment centers in major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where modern bowling alleys were established in shopping malls and amusement complexes. The Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation (PTBF), established in 2001, governs the sport nationally.
PTBF is affiliated with the Asian Bowling Federation and World Bowling, and it organizes national championships and sends players to international events. Pakistani bowlers have participated in regional competitions and are gradually building a competitive presence, although infrastructure and training facilities are still limited compared to traditional sports. PTBF actively promotes the sport through youth development programs and annual events to expand its reach.
4. Badminton
Badminton is widely played in Pakistan both recreationally and competitively, with strong grassroots support, especially among students and young professionals. The sport is governed by the Pakistan Badminton Federation, which organizes national tournaments and facilitates international participation.
Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are the leading regions in terms of participation and performance. Cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar regularly host inter-provincial and national tournaments. Pakistan has produced skilled players who have represented the country in the Commonwealth Games and South Asian Games, earning medals and accolades. There is a growing movement to enhance training infrastructure and coaching standards to compete more effectively on the Asian circuit.
5. Baseball
Baseball is a relatively lesser-known but steadily emerging sport in Pakistan, managed by the Pakistan Federation Baseball. The sport gained recognition in the late 1990s and has since been included in regional and continental competitions. Pakistan’s national baseball team has been one of the top-ranked teams in Asia’s B-level tournaments and has won several medals in the West Asia Baseball Cup.
Punjab, particularly Lahore, is the epicenter of baseball development, with coaching centers and academies supported by both government and private sports organizations. The team largely comprises athletes from army and college-level institutions. Although public awareness remains limited, the sport is on an upward trajectory thanks to international collaborations and youth engagement programs.
6. Basketball
Basketball in Pakistan has a dedicated yet niche following, primarily in schools, colleges, and certain urban communities. The sport is overseen by the Pakistan Basketball Federation (PBBF), which organizes national championships and selects players for international tournaments such as the South Asian Basketball Association (SABA) Championship.
Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are key centers where basketball is actively played, especially in private schools and universities. Sindh leads in terms of competitive basketball development, followed by Punjab. Despite limited infrastructure and funding, Pakistan maintains a national team that participates regionally. Recent efforts are focusing on introducing basketball at grassroots levels to expand the talent pipeline and promote the sport among youth.
7. Boxing
Boxing is one of Pakistan’s most successful individual sports at the international level, with a rich history of medal wins in the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and South Asian Games. Governed by the Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF), the sport has deep roots, particularly in Lyari (Karachi)—often referred to as the boxing capital of Pakistan.
Sindh and Balochistan are the primary contributors to Pakistan’s boxing talent, with over 40% of national-level boxers hailing from these provinces. Pakistan’s boxing legacy includes notable figures such as Syed Hussain Shah, who won a bronze medal in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. While the sport faces challenges like outdated training facilities and administrative issues, its potential remains high due to strong community involvement and raw talent.
8. Cycling
Cycling has long been a part of Pakistan’s sporting culture, with events dating back to the early post-independence years. Governed by the Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF), the sport includes road cycling, track cycling, and mountain biking disciplines. Pakistan regularly hosts events such as the Tour de Pakistan, one of the longest cycling races in Asia.
Punjab and Balochistan are major contributors to competitive cycling, thanks to open terrain and community involvement. The Quetta region, in particular, has produced several national champions. While not a mainstream sport, cycling is gaining traction as both a competitive and recreational activity, with increased interest from urban fitness enthusiasts and sports clubs.
9. Canoeing and Rowing
Canoeing and rowing are emerging water sports in Pakistan, managed under the umbrella of the Pakistan Canoe and Kayak Federation and Pakistan Rowing Federation, respectively. These sports are practiced in cities with access to suitable water bodies, such as Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi. Training centers are primarily situated at lakes, reservoirs, and coastal regions.
Sindh and Islamabad Capital Territory are leading regions for canoeing and rowing due to their geographical advantages. Rowing teams from the Pakistan Navy, Army, and WAPDA regularly participate in national and regional competitions. Though still underdeveloped, the sport shows promise, especially with the introduction of university-level competitions and youth participation in organized events.
10. Cricket
Cricket is by far the most popular and passionately followed sport in Pakistan, transcending regional, ethnic, and class boundaries. Governed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), cricket is not just a sport but a national obsession, with millions following domestic and international matches. Pakistan has a proud history in cricket, including winning the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1992, the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009, and numerous bilateral series and Champions Trophy (2017).
Cricket is played in all provinces, with Punjab and Sindh being the largest hubs, accounting for over 60% of the national talent pool. Cities like Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan are home to major stadiums and cricket academies. From gully cricket in backstreets to international fixtures in packed stadiums, cricket is an inseparable part of Pakistani identity. The advent of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has further revitalized the sport, providing young players with a platform to shine and boosting its economic and entertainment value nationwide.
11. E-Sports (Electronic Sports)
E-sports, or electronic sports, is a rapidly growing phenomenon in Pakistan, particularly among the youth. The sport involves competitive video gaming, where players or teams compete in various video game titles such as Dota 2, League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and PUBG Mobile. The rise of mobile gaming and internet accessibility has accelerated the growth of e-sports in Pakistan.
The sport is managed by various local organizations, including the Pakistan E-Sports Association (PESA). Karachi and Lahore are key hubs for e-sports, with major gaming tournaments hosted regularly. With the increasing participation of players and viewers, Pakistan has also seen international success, with players and teams qualifying for global competitions like PUBG Mobile Global Championship and Dota 2 International. The government and private sector are increasingly recognizing e-sports’ potential, creating sponsorships, leagues, and development programs to foster competitive gaming at the national and international levels.
12. Field Hockey
Field hockey holds a distinguished place in Pakistan’s sporting history, once regarded as the national sport. Pakistan has been a dominant force in international field hockey, winning three Olympic gold medals, four World Cups, and three Champions Trophies. The sport is governed by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), and despite a decline in performance over the years, Pakistan continues to participate in international tournaments like the Hockey World Cup and Asian Games.
Punjab, particularly Lahore, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are the primary centers for field hockey in Pakistan. The sport enjoys immense popularity at the grassroots level, with local clubs and schools regularly organizing matches. Pakistan’s legacy in field hockey, which produced legendary players like Shahnaz Sheikh, Islahuddin Siddique, and Sohail Abbas, remains a source of national pride. Though the sport is currently facing challenges like infrastructure limitations and lack of investment, there is hope for revival through targeted grassroots development and improved management.
13. Football (Soccer)
Football, or soccer, is one of the most widely played sports in Pakistan, although its popularity has not yet reached the heights of cricket or field hockey. The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) governs the sport, and Pakistan has a national football team that competes in regional tournaments like the SAFF Championship and the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Balochistan, Punjab, and Sindh are the major provinces where football is most popular, with urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Quetta hosting the highest number of players and football clubs. Despite challenges like a lack of professional leagues and inadequate infrastructure, Pakistan has seen growing interest in football, particularly with the advent of youth programs and private sector investments. The sport is gaining popularity at the grassroots level, and with the potential for development, football is poised to play a more prominent role in Pakistan’s sporting future.
14. Fencing
Fencing is a lesser-known but emerging sport in Pakistan, governed by the Pakistan Fencing Federation (PFF). Though still in its early stages, fencing has slowly gained traction in the country, particularly among students in elite schools and universities. The sport involves three types of weapons—foil, épée, and sabre—and requires skill, speed, and precision.
The sport has grown in popularity primarily in Karachi and Islamabad, where fencing clubs and academies have been established. Pakistan has participated in international competitions, including the Asian Fencing Championships and FIFA World Fencing Tournament, though the country has not yet produced elite international fencers. Despite being underdeveloped compared to more popular sports, fencing shows potential due to rising interest and increasing institutional support for the sport at academic and professional levels.
15. Golf
Golf in Pakistan has a long and storied history, with the first golf course established in Karachi in the early 19th century. The sport is governed by the Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF), which organizes national tournaments such as the Pakistan Open and the National Golf Championship. Golf has steadily grown in popularity, particularly among the elite and business communities, but also in the form of a growing number of public golf courses.
Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are the main golfing cities, with prestigious golf courses like the Karachi Golf Club and Lahore Gymkhana Golf Course attracting both national and international golfers. Pakistan has produced talented golfers who have competed in international tournaments, and some have earned accolades in regional competitions. The sport is gaining more attention due to increasing investment in facilities and growing interest among the middle class.
16. Gymnastics
Gymnastics is a sport that requires a high level of physical agility, strength, and coordination. In Pakistan, gymnastics is governed by the Pakistan Gymnastics Federation (PGF), which organizes national competitions and promotes the sport at the youth level. Although it is not as widely popular as cricket or football, gymnastics has a dedicated base, particularly in urban centers and educational institutions.
Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are the regions where gymnastics has the most substantial following, with provincial and inter-school competitions serving as the primary platforms for young gymnasts to showcase their talent. However, the sport faces challenges such as a lack of proper infrastructure and professional coaching. Despite these hurdles, the Pakistan Gymnastics Team has made a mark in international competitions like the Asian Games and South Asian Games, and there are growing efforts to nurture talent for future success.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding, also known as equestrian sports, holds a deep cultural and historical significance in Pakistan, especially tied to traditional events, cavalry heritage, and rural life. The sport encompasses various disciplines including show jumping, dressage, endurance riding, and tent pegging—an ancient cavalry sport that remains highly popular in rural Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The sport is regulated by the Equestrian Federation of Pakistan (EFP), which was established in 1983. The EFP is affiliated with the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) and oversees all national-level competitions, training camps, and international participation. Pakistan Army plays a significant role in promoting and training riders through military equestrian units, particularly in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
Major equestrian events such as the National Tent Pegging Championship and inter-services competitions are held annually. Equestrian clubs like Remount Depot Mona (one of the oldest in Asia), Lahore Polo Club, and Karachi Riding School also offer training and host events for civilians and professionals alike.
17. Handball
Handball is a team sport that is gaining traction in Pakistan, especially in schools and universities. It is governed by the Pakistan Handball Federation (PHF) and has been steadily growing in terms of participation and organizational development. Handball is often played recreationally but has a competitive edge in certain regions of the country.
The sport is most prominent in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where clubs and schools regularly participate in inter-district tournaments. Handball’s popularity has been bolstered by the establishment of national competitions and the increasing support from educational institutions. Pakistan has yet to make a significant impact in international handball, but the sport is gaining ground with a focus on grassroots development and youth engagement.
18. Ice Sports (Limited to Northern Areas)
Ice sports, including ice hockey and figure skating, are niche sports in Pakistan, largely practiced in the northern regions, particularly Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. These areas provide the necessary cold climates for such sports, and the natural landscape has become an asset for enthusiasts. The Pakistan Ice Hockey Federation is responsible for organizing events and promoting the sport in the country.
Gilgit-Baltistan has witnessed the rise of ice skating and ice hockey events, with local teams participating in regional tournaments. Due to the lack of extensive infrastructure and training programs, ice sports remain relatively underdeveloped. However, the pristine natural conditions and growing tourism in northern Pakistan provide a unique opportunity for the sport’s development, and with the right investment, it could see growth in the coming years.
19. Judo
Judo, a martial art that focuses on throws and grappling techniques, has a respected presence in Pakistan. The Pakistan Judo Federation (PJF) oversees the sport, organizing national championships and working to elevate Pakistan’s status in the international judo arena. Although the sport faces some challenges, such as insufficient training facilities and exposure, it is practiced at the national level with increasing participation.
Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are the primary provinces where judo is practiced. There are established judo academies and clubs in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, which regularly produce national champions. While Pakistan has not seen major breakthroughs in international judo competitions, the country has a history of producing competitive judokas who have earned medals in regional tournaments, such as the South Asian Games and the Asian Judo Championships.
20. Kabaddi
Kabaddi is one of the most culturally significant sports in Pakistan, with deep roots in rural areas and strong participation in the provinces of Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. The sport is especially popular in Punjab, where it is played in villages and small towns, and is a key part of traditional gatherings and festivals. Kabaddi is governed by the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF), which organizes national championships and also facilitates Pakistan’s participation in international competitions.
Pakistan has a strong kabaddi tradition, regularly competing and succeeding in regional tournaments such as the Asian Kabaddi Championship and the Kabaddi World Cup. The country has won multiple titles, establishing itself as a powerhouse in the sport. In recent years, the sport has seen a revival through professional leagues, such as the Pakistan Kabaddi League, which has attracted sponsorship and media attention. Kabaddi remains deeply ingrained in Pakistan’s sports culture and continues to be one of the most widely played sports in rural communities.
21. Karate
Karate, a traditional martial art that emphasizes striking techniques such as punching, kicking, and knee strikes, has gained considerable popularity in Pakistan. Governed by the Pakistan Karate Federation (PKF), the sport has a structured presence in the country, with numerous local clubs and competitions held regularly at the national level. Pakistan’s karate athletes have increasingly made their mark in international competitions, including the Asian Karate Championships and the World Karate Championships.
Punjab and Sindh are the primary provinces where karate has the most followers, particularly in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The sport is widely practiced in schools, universities, and specialized martial arts academies. Despite challenges in terms of professional development and infrastructure, Pakistan’s karate community continues to grow, and the country is starting to produce international-caliber athletes. The increasing focus on youth programs and international exposure will be crucial for the continued development of karate in Pakistan.
23. Mountaineering and Rock Climbing
Mountaineering and rock climbing are adventurous and challenging sports that have a significant following in the northern regions of Pakistan, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. With some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2 (the second-highest mountain on Earth), Pakistan is a premier destination for mountaineers and climbers. The Pakistan Mountaineering Federation (PMF) and various local clubs promote these sports and provide necessary support for expeditions and climbing events.
The Hunza Valley, Skardu, and Naran are known for their world-class climbing and mountaineering routes. Gilgit-Baltistan remains the focal point for these sports, attracting climbers and adventurers from around the globe to tackle the challenging peaks of the Karakoram Range. Despite the high difficulty level and inherent risks, Pakistan’s mountaineering community has made significant achievements, including successful climbs of K2 and other major peaks. The sport also plays a vital role in promoting tourism and adventure sports in the region.
24. Motor Sports
Motor sports in Pakistan encompass a wide range of activities, including rally racing, motorbike racing, and car racing. While the popularity of motor sports is still growing, the country has hosted several international motorsport events, such as the Pakistan Rally Championship (PRC) and Superbike races. The Pakistan Automobile Sports Federation (PASF) governs the sport, and local events are regularly organized to promote talent and foster interest.
Punjab, particularly around Lahore and Islamabad, has witnessed increasing participation in motor sports, with numerous racing clubs and tracks established over the years. Additionally, the motor sports community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has gained momentum, as the region is known for its challenging terrains, making it ideal for off-road and rally racing. Pakistan has seen success in rally events, particularly in the Thal Rally and Jeep Rally, which have attracted international participation. The sport’s potential for growth is strong, particularly with increasing investment in motorsport infrastructure and the promotion of racing leagues.
25. Polo
Polo is a traditional sport with deep historical roots in Pakistan, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where it is a significant part of local culture. Known as the “game of kings,” polo is played on horseback and involves two teams competing to score goals by hitting a ball with a mallet. The sport is governed by the Pakistan Polo Association (PPA), which organizes national championships and international events.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral are the regions where polo enjoys the highest popularity. The Shandur Polo Festival, held annually in Shandur, Chitral, is one of the world’s highest polo fields and attracts thousands of spectators and participants from around the globe. The sport has a rich heritage, with local communities in these regions practicing polo as a tradition passed down through generations. Polo also enjoys popularity in Islamabad and Lahore, where elite clubs and events cater to affluent enthusiasts. Pakistan has produced world-class polo players, and the country has hosted international polo tournaments, further cementing its status as a polo destination.
26. Rowing
Rowing is a water sport that requires strength, endurance, and technique, and it has seen a steady rise in popularity in Pakistan, especially in Punjab and Sindh. The Pakistan Rowing Federation (PRF) governs the sport, organizing national competitions and training programs for athletes. Rowing is practiced in several rivers and lakes across Pakistan, with Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore being major centers for the sport.
Although the sport is still developing in Pakistan, the country has participated in international events such as the Asian Rowing Championships and World Rowing Cup. The Indus River and other water bodies in the country provide the necessary environment for rowing enthusiasts, and there is a growing focus on improving infrastructure and professional training to elevate Pakistan’s standing in the sport.
27. Rugby Sevens
Rugby Sevens, a faster, shorter format of the traditional rugby union, has gained increasing attention in Pakistan over recent years. The sport is governed by the Pakistan Rugby Union (PRU), which is responsible for organizing national championships and fostering the growth of rugby at the grassroots level. Rugby Sevens is a sport played predominantly in urban centers, with clubs and universities regularly hosting tournaments.
Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore are the key cities where rugby has made inroads, particularly among youth and universities. Despite its growth, rugby in Pakistan faces challenges such as limited facilities and lack of media exposure. However, the sport has gained support from private and government sectors, and Pakistan’s participation in regional tournaments like the Asian Rugby Sevens Series has raised the profile of rugby. The sport’s future looks promising, with initiatives underway to improve coaching, infrastructure, and youth participation.
28. Shooting
Shooting, a precision sport requiring concentration, steadiness, and control, is well-established in Pakistan, with various disciplines such as rifle shooting, pistol shooting, and trap shooting. The National Rifle Association of Pakistan (NRAP) and other regional federations are responsible for organizing national events and facilitating Pakistan’s participation in international competitions.
The sport enjoys widespread popularity in provinces such as Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where shooting ranges and clubs are found in several cities. Pakistan has a strong tradition of success in international shooting competitions, including the Olympic Games, Asian Games, and World Shooting Championships. Pakistan has produced notable shooters, particularly in pistol and rifle events, and continues to excel in regional competitions. The development of youth programs and modern shooting facilities is key to ensuring continued success in the sport.
29. Snooker and Billiards
Snooker and billiards, cue sports that require skill, strategy, and precision, have enjoyed a significant level of popularity in Pakistan. The Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Federation (PBSF) oversees these sports, organizing national tournaments and training players for international events. Pakistan has a rich history in snooker, with the sport experiencing a boom in the 1980s and 1990s.
Cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad have numerous snooker clubs, and the sport is popular in both recreational and competitive settings. Pakistan has produced world-class snooker players, including Mohammad Asif, who has won multiple world titles, placing the country on the map of international snooker. The country’s success in global competitions and its strong domestic following make snooker and billiards two of the most prominent sports in Pakistan. The challenge remains in further developing grassroots programs and expanding the sport’s reach to younger generations.
30. Squash
Squash holds a special place in Pakistan’s sports history, with the country having produced some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Legends such as Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan have set high standards in international squash, with Pakistan dominating the global scene in the 1980s and 1990s. The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) is the governing body responsible for organizing national events and ensuring that the country maintains its position in international squash.
Squash is most popular in Punjab, particularly in Lahore and Islamabad, where many of the country’s top squash players train and compete. Pakistan has a well-established network of squash courts, and the sport enjoys a significant following. Despite challenges in maintaining the same level of dominance as in previous decades, Pakistan continues to produce promising players, and there are efforts to revitalize squash with better facilities and youth training programs. The country’s legacy in squash remains strong, and the sport still holds immense respect and interest, both domestically and internationally.
31. Swimming
Swimming is a popular sport in Pakistan, particularly in urban areas, where numerous swimming pools are available for recreational and competitive purposes. The Pakistan Swimming Federation (PSF) governs the sport and organizes national competitions, along with training programs to develop talent at the grassroots level. Swimming is often seen as an essential life skill, and it has become an important part of the physical education curriculum in schools across the country.
Sindh and Punjab are the provinces where swimming is most popular, particularly in cities like Karachi and Lahore, which have well-established aquatic facilities. Pakistan has made notable progress in swimming at the international level, with athletes participating in events like the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Swimming Championships. While the sport’s infrastructure and elite coaching need improvement, there is growing investment in developing young swimmers, particularly in Karachi and Islamabad.
32. Sailing
Sailing, though not as widely practiced as some other sports, has seen increasing interest in Pakistan, especially in coastal regions such as Karachi. The Pakistan Sailing Federation (PSF) is the governing body for the sport, and it oversees the organization of national championships and training programs. Karachi is the hub for sailing, given its proximity to the Arabian Sea, which provides ideal conditions for the sport.
The sport is mostly enjoyed by the elite and those with access to the coast, as sailing requires access to specialized equipment and facilities. Despite the challenges in terms of infrastructure and the high cost of participation, Pakistan has seen a steady rise in amateur and competitive sailors. The development of local clubs and increased participation in international competitions such as the Asian Sailing Championships is helping to increase the sport’s profile in Pakistan.
33. Softball
Softball, a bat-and-ball sport similar to baseball, has gained popularity in Pakistan in recent years. It is played mainly in schools, universities, and recreational leagues. The Pakistan Softball Federation (PSF) governs the sport, promoting it at the grassroots level and organizing national championships. Softball is popular in regions like Punjab and Sindh, where local tournaments are often held, and the sport has seen steady growth at the youth level.
Though Pakistan’s performance on the international stage is still developing, the country’s national team has participated in Asian Softball Championships and World Softball Competitions. Softball’s popularity is growing, particularly among women and young athletes, with increasing interest in creating more opportunities for training and competition.
34. Taekwondo
Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its emphasis on high, fast kicks and strikes, is widely practiced in Pakistan. Governed by the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF), the sport has gained significant popularity, with both recreational practitioners and competitive athletes participating in local and international tournaments. Taekwondo has become one of the leading martial arts in Pakistan, with a growing number of schools, clubs, and academies offering training.
Punjab and Sindh lead in participation, with major cities like Lahore and Karachi hosting national and regional competitions. Pakistan has seen considerable success in international Taekwondo competitions, especially in the Asian Taekwondo Championships and World Taekwondo Championships, where athletes have earned medals. The sport’s popularity continues to grow, supported by a dedicated base of youth practitioners and an increasing emphasis on professional coaching and international exposure.
35. Table Tennis
Table tennis, also known as ping pong, is a widely played indoor sport in Pakistan, with a strong following among schoolchildren and adults alike. The Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF) is responsible for the development of the sport, organizing national competitions and talent development programs. The sport is practiced in most urban centers across Pakistan, with major hubs in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where national events and training camps are regularly held.
Though Pakistan has faced challenges in terms of competing at the highest international levels, the country continues to produce promising players who compete in tournaments like the Asian Table Tennis Championships and the Commonwealth Games. The sport’s popularity is growing, particularly among younger generations, thanks to increased access to training facilities and an emerging focus on improving the technical skills of players at the national level.
36. Tennis
Tennis is one of the most popular individual sports in Pakistan, enjoyed by athletes of all ages. The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) is the governing body, which organizes national tournaments and provides a structured platform for competitive players. Tennis is particularly popular in Punjab and Sindh, with cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad serving as major hubs for the sport.
Pakistan has produced notable tennis players such as Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, who has achieved significant success on the international stage. The sport enjoys strong participation at the amateur level, and the Lahore Lawn Tennis Association is one of the oldest in the country. Although Pakistan faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and facilities, efforts are being made to foster young talent and improve the country’s standing in international tennis tournaments, including the Davis Cup and Asian Tennis Championships.
37. Tug of War
Tug of War, a traditional strength-based team sport, has been a part of Pakistan’s sporting heritage, with roots in rural areas where it is commonly played during festivals and local events. The Pakistan Tug of War Federation (PTWF) governs the sport and organizes national competitions to bring the sport into a more organized, competitive format.
The sport has a strong following in rural areas, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, where it is a popular part of community events. While not widely practiced at the elite level, the sport enjoys a cultural significance, and Pakistan has participated in various international competitions such as the World Tug of War Championships. Efforts to develop infrastructure, improve facilities, and bring the sport to urban areas have been initiated, but its reach remains somewhat limited compared to more mainstream sports.
38. Volleyball
Volleyball is one of the most popular team sports in Pakistan, both at the recreational and professional levels. The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) governs the sport and organizes national leagues, which are crucial for fostering local talent. Volleyball has strong followings in provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh, with cities like Peshawar, Lahore, and Karachi being major centers for the sport.
Pakistan has a long-standing history of success in regional competitions, particularly in the Asian Volleyball Championships and the South Asian Games, where the national team has earned recognition. The sport is well-supported by schools, universities, and local clubs. The sport’s growth is expected to continue, with greater attention on improving coaching, facilities, and youth development programs, particularly in rural areas where volleyball is deeply ingrained in local sporting culture.
39. Wrestling (Kushti)
Wrestling, or Kushti, is one of the most culturally significant and historically rich sports in Pakistan, particularly in the Punjab region. The sport, which has roots in traditional forms of wrestling, is deeply embedded in local communities and has been practiced for centuries. Pakistan Wrestling Federation (PWF) oversees the sport and organizes competitions at the national and international levels.
Pakistan has produced some of the greatest wrestlers in history, including Inam Butt, who has won numerous gold medals in Asian Wrestling Championships and World Wrestling Championships. Kushti is popular at the grassroots level and is practiced in areas such as Sialkot, Lahore, and Faisalabad, where many wrestling academies exist. The sport has gained renewed attention through its successes on the world stage, and efforts are being made to modernize facilities and increase youth participation to maintain Pakistan’s prominence in international wrestling.
40. Weightlifting
Weightlifting is a sport that requires tremendous strength, technique, and discipline. Pakistan has a solid history in the sport, particularly in the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and World Weightlifting Championships. The Pakistan Weightlifting Federation (PWF) governs the sport and facilitates national competitions, talent development programs, and training camps for athletes.
Cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad have seen strong performances from weightlifters, with athletes like Nooh Das and Talha Talib emerging as significant figures in international weightlifting. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa contribute heavily to the sport, with provincial training centers and clubs fostering top-tier weightlifters. Despite limited resources, Pakistan has shown potential on the global stage and continues to invest in improving training facilities, international exposure, and youth development.
Pakistan’s sports landscape is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself, encompassing a rich blend of modern competitive sports and time-honored traditional games. While cricket undeniably reigns supreme across the nation, regional preferences for other sports contribute to a rich and colorful athletic identity. Punjab leads the way in sports participation, followed closely by Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reflecting both population density and infrastructural development.
Despite economic and logistical challenges, Pakistani athletes have repeatedly proven their mettle on the world stage, from Olympic podiums in hockey and wrestling to historic squash championships and thrilling cricket victories. With renewed government focus, increased investment in grassroots development, and rising public interest in diverse sports, the future of Pakistani athletics looks promising. Promoting a broader sports culture across all provinces will not only enhance physical well-being but also strengthen national unity and international recognition.
As we explore the comprehensive list of sports played across Pakistan, it becomes evident that sports are not merely games—they are reflections of the country’s heritage, resilience, and aspiration.