The sports sector appears set to receive limited support in the proposed federal budget for 2026-27, with only Rs1.5 billion recommended for sports-related development projects. The allocation has raised concerns among stakeholders who believe stronger investment is needed to improve facilities, nurture talent, and accelerate infrastructure development across the country.
Budget proposals show that the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination has earmarked Rs1.5 billion for sports promotion and development. However, the amount falls well short of the funding required for several ongoing initiatives. As a result, questions are emerging about whether current projects can progress at the desired pace under the proposed financial framework.
One of the most significant developments is the exclusion of the Islamabad Cricket Stadium project from the proposed budget. No funds have been allocated for the highly anticipated venue, despite previous discussions surrounding its construction. Officials have indicated that work on the stadium may begin after the completion of three other stadium projects expected to finish next year.
Meanwhile, the ministry has proposed only one new sports development scheme for the upcoming fiscal year. The project has been allocated just Rs20 million, highlighting the limited scope of fresh investment planned for the sector. The modest allocation suggests that priority has largely been given to maintaining existing projects rather than launching major new initiatives.
According to budget documents, Rs1.48 billion has been proposed for 13 ongoing sports projects. However, the combined cost of these projects, along with the new scheme, stands at approximately Rs9.88 billion. By June 2026, around Rs4.35 billion had already been spent, while an additional Rs5.53 billion remains necessary to complete the planned work.
Consequently, the proposed allocation leaves a substantial funding gap that could affect project timelines and infrastructure expansion. Industry observers warn that insufficient investment may slow the development of sports facilities and grassroots programmes, raising broader concerns about the future direction of sports development and long-term planning in Pakistan.