India to Maintain Ban on Bilateral Sports with Pakistan, Exempting Multinational Events

The Government of India has announced that the ban on bilateral sports relations with Pakistan will continue, as stated by the Sports Ministry on Wednesday, 6 May 2026. However, this policy will not prevent Pakistani athletes from participating in multilateral sporting events held in India. The Ministry's circular, which has been issued to National Sports Federations, the Indian Olympic Association, and the Sports Authority of India, emphasises that Indian teams will not engage in competitions hosted by Pakistan, and conversely, Pakistani teams will not be permitted to compete in India.

In reference to participation in international and multilateral events, the Ministry cited adherence to international sports guidelines and the interests of Indian athletes. The Ministry specified that Indian players and teams will take part in international competitions that include participants from Pakistan. This also applies to Pakistani athletes, who will be welcome to compete in such events hosted by India.

This policy was implemented following controversies surrounding India's participation in the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates, where India faced Pakistan shortly after a significant terrorist attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 fatalities. At that time, the Ministry reiterated that it would not impede multilateral sporting engagements unless the event were to be hosted in Pakistan.

As India aims to present itself as a conducive host for international sporting events—particularly with aspirations to hold the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympic Games—the Sports Ministry is committed to simplifying visa processes for athletes and officials involved in international sports. This includes ensuring that officials from International Sports Governing Bodies receive priority multi-entry visas for the duration of their tenure, up to a maximum of five years.

The Ministry also mentioned that customary protocols and courtesies will be extended to leaders of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India. Furthermore, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially relocated its headquarters from Shastri Bhawan to a newly constructed building in Netaji Nagar.