Islamabad, Mar 12 2025: Mohammad Riaz, a national footballer, has been invited to the Prime Minister House after a video showing him selling jalebis went viral.
Earlier this week, a short video of the Hangu-born football player went viral on social media, sparking widespread concern over the plight of athletes in Pakistan.
The 29-year-old, who represented Pakistan in the 2018 Asian Games, lost his livelihood when K-Electric disbanded its football team.
The move followed the previous decision made by the Imran Khan-led government to ban departmental sports—an action Riaz described as hasty and damaging to the careers of many professional players.
Left without financial support, Riaz turned to selling jalebis in his hometown, Hangu, as a means of survival.
The story of Mohammad Riaz gained traction after it was highlighted by a private local news channel, shedding light on the struggles of sportsmen sidelined by policy decisions.
Despite directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to reinstate departmental sports, many athletes continue to face uncertainty.
Riaz expressed his frustration, saying he had been waiting for the promised revival but could no longer afford to rely on assurances.
Officials at the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) confirmed that Riaz has been invited to the PM House, where he may meet the Prime Minister, depending on his availability.
The move is seen as a significant step towards recognizing the challenges faced by Pakistani athletes and addressing their grievances.
