Ending a 23-year hiatus and prolonged uncertainty, Pakistan is set to host a major regional multi-sporting event once again. Arch-rival India has agreed in principle to participate in the 14th South Asian Games (SA Games), scheduled to take place from April 4 to April 11, 2027.
According to reports from a leading Pakistani publication, representatives from India confirmed their participation during a high-level virtual coordination meeting of the South Asian Olympic Association. Secretary General of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), Khalid Mehmood, stated that the invitation was formally accepted at the regional Olympic body level. However, the final size of the Indian contingent and the specific athlete entries will be officially communicated in January 2027.
According to host sources, the proposed 2027 SA Games will feature 28 sports disciplines distributed across three major cities: Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar. The federal capital, Islamabad, will host the largest share with 15 events—including squash, tennis, and martial arts. The historic sporting hub of Lahore will hold 10 events, including cricket, swimming, and hockey, while Peshawar will host the remaining 3 disciplines. To ensure comprehensive security and logistics for thousands of visiting athletes, officials, and international media, a review meeting was convened under the chairmanship of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Pakistan last successfully hosted the 9th edition of the SA Games in Islamabad in 2004.
