A Major Controversy in Pakistan’s Padel Community
A significant controversy has emerged within Pakistan’s padel community, as the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) officially declared the so-called Pakistan Padel Federation (PPF) as unrecognised and unaffiliated. This move came after the PSB took action against Mudassir Razzaq Arain, a representative of the PPF, for allegedly interfering in the country’s first-ever international padel tournament, the McDonald’s Karachi Grand Slam.
The issue gained attention when the PPF attempted to disrupt the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) event hosted by Legends Arena, led by squash legend Jahangir Khan. The PPF issued threatening emails to players and officials, claiming the event was ‘unauthorised’ and warning of ‘immediate disciplinary action’ for participation. Following an investigation, the PSB determined that the PPF was not affiliated or recognised by the government’s premier sports authority, meaning it had no legal right to represent or use the name ‘Pakistan’.
In a strongly worded letter issued to Mr. Arain on October 29, the PSB stated:
“No padel federation stands affiliated or recognised by the Pakistan Sports Board. You have misrepresented yourself as an office-bearer of a non-existent federation, and your act of interference in an internationally sanctioned sporting event constitutes misrepresentation and violation of the PSB constitution.”
The PSB also accused Mr. Arain of taking a padel team abroad to compete in the FIP Asia Cup without the board’s approval, which is considered a serious breach of protocol. The Board gave him three days to explain his actions or face legal proceedings and a possible ban.
This letter was issued after Jahangir Khan, Chairman of Legends Arena, raised the issue with the PSB ahead of the four-day tournament that concluded successfully on Sunday. The PSB’s intervention ensured that athletes and officials could participate in the APPT event without fear of sanctions.
A Landmark Moment for Padel in Pakistan
Talal Shah Khan, CEO of Legends Arena, welcomed the PSB’s clarification, calling it ‘a landmark moment’ for padel’s growth in Pakistan. He said:
“We are extremely happy with the PSB’s findings, which enabled the successful hosting of Pakistan’s first international padel tournament.”
He added that the so-called PPF’s actions caused unnecessary anxiety among players and organisers. The PSB has now made it clear that PPF has no authority to represent padel in Pakistan.
Talal confirmed that the PSB’s letter has been forwarded to the International Padel Federation (FIP), urging the global governing body to reassess its association with the disputed PPF. According to Talal, FIP has given the PPF until December 2025 to prove its legitimacy and government affiliation, a requirement yet to be fulfilled.
“The FIP must ensure that any national body claiming to represent Pakistan is properly constituted and recognised by the PSB,”he added.
“This will help establish a credible and transparent foundation for the sport’s future in Pakistan.”
The McDonald’s Karachi Grand Slam was hailed as a milestone event, marking Pakistan’s entry into the international padel circuit under the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT). With enthusiastic participation from local and foreign players, the tournament showcased Pakistan’s potential to become a regional hub for the rapidly growing sport.
The Future of Padel in Pakistan
With the PSB’s involvement, there is now a clearer path forward for padel in Pakistan. The recognition of the sport by the national sports authority is a crucial step in ensuring that all events and federations adhere to proper protocols and regulations.
The controversy surrounding the PPF highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in sports governance. As padel continues to gain popularity, it is essential that the sport is represented by legitimate and recognised bodies that can provide support, structure, and opportunities for players at all levels.
Looking ahead, the collaboration between the PSB, Legends Arena, and the FIP will play a key role in shaping the future of padel in Pakistan. By establishing clear guidelines and ensuring that only legitimate federations are involved, the sport can grow in a sustainable and organised manner.
As the sport moves forward, the focus will remain on developing infrastructure, training programmes, and competitive opportunities for players. The success of the McDonald’s Karachi Grand Slam serves as a testament to what can be achieved when all stakeholders work together towards a common goal.