2025 South Asian Games - Host Cities, Participating Nations and Sports Disciplines
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
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Pakistan To Host South Asian Games in 2026
Originally planned for 2021, the South Asian Games were delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by further setbacks caused by coordination issues between the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) and the Pakistani government. With the venues and dates now confirmed, the organisation of the event is expected to move forward smoothly.
The decision to host the tournament in Pakistan was made in Lahore, with representatives of delegations from Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives, Bangladesh and India joining the meeting virtually. The Games are expected to run across four cities in Pakistan, including Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad, next year, though there are still considerations being made to add more venues to the setup.
While there is still time for changes to occur before the commencement of the Games, Gujranwala is being considered as a venue for weightlifting and wrestling competitions, while Sialkot and Narowal are being eyed for volleyball events. Kasur may also host some events, while reports suggest that the POA plans to organise the football competition in Karachi, Sindh.
South Asian Games: Participating Nations
- Bangladesh
- Bhutan
- India
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Pakistan (host)
- Sri Lanka
South Asian Games: Sports Disciplines
Archery | Equestrian | Table tennis |
---|---|---|
Athletics | Fencing | Taekwondo |
Aquatics | Field hockey | Tennis |
Artistic swimming | Football | Soft tennis |
Diving | Golf | Triathlon |
Swimming | Gymnastics | Aquathlon |
Water polo | Handball | Duathlon |
Badminton | Judo | Triathlon |
Baseball | Kabaddi | Volleyball |
Basketball | Karate | Beach volleyball |
Basketball 3x3 | Kho kho | Volleyball |
Boxing | Modern pentathlon | Weightlifting |
Canoeing | Rowing | Wrestling |
Cricket | Sailing | Wushu |
Cycling | Shooting | Chess |
Mountain biking | Snooker | Ju-jitsu |
Road cycling | Softball | Slap kabaddi |
Esports | Squash |