Financial crunch hinders Pakistani boxers' Olympic preparations

Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) is embarking on a long-term plan to prepare its athletes for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but financial constraints are hindering their progress.

According to Major Irfan Younis, Secretary General of PBF, the federation is facing significant difficulties in implementing a coordinated strategy due to a lack of funds.

The financial struggles are depriving Pakistani boxers of participating in crucial Asian and world-level events, which are essential for gaining experience and qualifying for the Olympics. Despite receiving invitations to international competitions, the boxers are unable to participate due to funding issues.

Major Younis emphasized that timely release of funds by the Pakistan Sports Board would enable the federation to make the best possible preparations.

"We're laying the groundwork for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but financial constraints are a major hurdle. Timely funding from the Pakistan Sports Board would enable us to prepare our boxers to their full potential,” Younis said while speaking to Nukta.

Meanwhile, the PBF is moving forward with its domestic calendar. Next month, the National Inter-Services Boxing Championship will be held in Rawalpindi, featuring boxers from the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force. The National Games have been postponed to December, and prior to that, the National Boxing Championship will take place in Quetta in October. Additionally, Talent Hunt inter-division competitions will be held in Balochistan.

The Asian Games in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, scheduled for September 19 next year, will serve as a crucial qualification pathway for the Olympics. Two finalist boxers from each category in the Asian Games will qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics.

Major Younis stressed the need for intense practice and preparation to ensure a strong performance in the competition. Discussions with a Cuban coach are ongoing, but funding remains a major obstacle.

Pakistan's Olympic boxing history is limited to a single medal, won by Hussain Shah in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. With strategic planning and adequate funding, the PBF aims to improve its chances of winning more medals in the future.