Islamabad, Oct 24: The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has made the bold decision to officially contest the contentious decision of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to remove wrestling and hockey from the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Insiders claim that the POA would formally write to the CGF to request that the federation reevaluate what it perceives to be a detrimental omission of sports that have historically provided Pakistan with medal opportunities.
Numerous sports have been eliminated from the forthcoming Games, which will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, including wrestling and hockey, which has drawn harsh criticism. Given the significance of these sports in the area, the POA is eager to overturn the ruling, as are other countries like India.
“We are planning to write a letter this week to express our concerns and request the CGF to reconsider their decision,” a POA official revealed.
This push is not just Pakistan’s fight; sources indicate that the Indian Olympic body is also unhappy with the decision and may join forces with the POA to press the Commonwealth sports body for the inclusion of these two key sports.
Wrestling is Pakistan’s best chance at notching a podium as represented by 41 medals that the country has earned in its history.
In a region where wrestling and hockey are more than simply games—they are cultural staples—the POA’s intervention might be essential in changing the sports lineup as the 2026 Games get near.
