The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has formally declared that the Pakistan Padel Federation (PPF) is not recognised or affiliated with the country’s official sports authority, following a dispute surrounding the McDonald’s Karachi Grand Slam. The event, part of the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT), marked Pakistan’s first international padel tournament and was hosted by Legends Arena.
In a letter dated October 29, the PSB accused PPF representative Mudassir Razzaq Arain of “illegal interference” and “misrepresentation” after he attempted to block the tournament by issuing warnings to players and officials. The PSB stated that Arain had no authority to act on behalf of any legitimate federation and had violated the PSB constitution.
Unauthorized directives and disciplinary threats
Prior to the tournament, the PPF circulated emails claiming the APPT event was “unauthorized” and warned participants of “immediate disciplinary action.” These messages cited a directive allegedly issued by the International Padel Federation (FIP) on October 6. However, the PSB clarified that no padel federation is currently affiliated with its body and that Arain’s actions were not sanctioned.
The PSB’s letter outlined three key findings:
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No padel federation stands affiliated or recognised by the PSB.
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Mr Arain misrepresented himself as an office bearer of a non-existent federation.
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His interference in a sanctioned international event constitutes a violation of the PSB constitution.
Legal consequences and international escalation
The PSB gave Arain three days to respond and justify his actions, warning that failure to do so could result in legal proceedings and a potential ban. The matter has also been escalated to the sport’s global governing body, the FIP, which has reportedly given the PPF until December 2025 to prove its affiliation with the PSB.
Legends Arena welcomes PSB support
Talal Shah Khan, CEO of Legends Arena, praised the PSB’s intervention, which he said allowed the tournament to proceed without fear of sanctions. He also forwarded the PSB’s findings to the FIP to clarify the federation’s lack of legitimacy.
“We are extremely happy with the Pakistan Sports Board’s findings in this matter, which enabled the successful hosting of Pakistan’s first international padel tournament,” said Khan.
“The actions of the so-called PPF were causing distress to many players and officials who wanted to play and support this historic event. The PSB has clearly stated the PPF has no authority over padel in Pakistan and I call on the governing body FIP to take notice of this and for it to carry out due diligence of all individuals for a new padel organisation in Pakistan.”
A turning point for padel in Pakistan
The controversy has highlighted the need for clearer governance and official recognition of padel in Pakistan. With the sport gaining traction globally, stakeholders hope this incident will lead to the establishment of a legitimate, government-backed federation that can support future growth and international participation.
