The Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), Muhammad Yasir Pirzada, visited the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) Headquarters in Lahore to reaffirm the PSB’s commitment to revitalizing football in Pakistan. Pirzada was warmly received by senior PFF officials, including Ali Akram and Aziz Malik, and congratulated the federation on its recent elections, which were deemed historic and transparent. The new leadership of the PFF, under President Syed Mohsen Gilani, has a vision to uplift football in Pakistan, and Pirzada assured the PSB’s full support for this effort.
During the meeting, Pirzada emphasized the importance of developing sustainable infrastructure, promoting inclusive participation, and modernizing facilities to international standards. The proposed renovation and upgradation of the Punjab Stadium in Lahore was a key point of discussion, with Pirzada stressing the need to align the facility with international standards, similar to the recently upgraded Jinnah Stadium in Islamabad. This would enable the stadium to host national and international football events, promoting the sport and providing opportunities for Pakistani footballers to compete at the highest level.
The talks also focused on nationwide football development initiatives, with Pirzada expressing the PSB’s readiness to support the PFF’s strategic roadmap. This roadmap includes expanding grassroots infrastructure, promoting youth and women’s football, and establishing robust professional league systems. The collaborative dialogue between the PSB and PFF highlighted a mutual understanding to work together to revive football in Pakistan, a sport with immense potential and popularity across the country.
The visit marks a significant step towards enhanced cooperation between the PSB and PFF, and is expected to have a positive impact on the development of football in Pakistan. With the PSB’s support, the PFF can focus on implementing its strategic plan, which aims to promote football at all levels, from grassroots to professional. The ultimate goal is to create a thriving football ecosystem in Pakistan, which can produce talented players, competitive teams, and a strong football culture. By working together, the PSB and PFF can help to unlock the full potential of football in Pakistan and bring the sport to new heights.