Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s celebrated javelin thrower, will travel with his coach Salman Butt to the upcoming Islamic Solidarity Games next week, despite Butt being handed a lifetime ban by the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP). The ban, imposed on October 12, bars Salman from participating in any athletics-related activity at national or international levels, whether as a coach, athlete, official, or office bearer.
Also Read: Liverpool Edge Real Madrid in Champions League Thriller
AFP cited “gross violations of the AFP Constitution” as the reason behind the ban, particularly pointing to what it described as “illegal and unconstitutional” elections held by the Punjab Athletics Association on August 31. Salman Butt had been president of the association until August 6. The federation also questioned Arshad’s 10th-place finish at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September, requesting an explanation from Salman shortly before the ban.
Following the ban, Salman approached the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) on October 14 to appeal the decision. The PSB appointed Senator Pervaiz Rashid as the adjudicator for the case. A notice of hearing indicated that Rashid had sent a questionnaire to AFP and held the first hearing on November 3. However, AFP objected to the case being sent to an adjudicator, claiming that arbitration should have been followed instead.
The PSB, citing its constitution as well as precedents from the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court, confirmed its authority to hear and decide the matter. AFP’s jurisdiction objection was formally rejected and set aside. The next hearing was initially scheduled for November 6 but has now been postponed to November 13 following AFP’s request for additional time.
Amid these legal proceedings, Arshad has received continued backing from the Pakistan Olympics Association (POA). On October 17, Arshad wrote to the POA seeking support regarding his coach, and the association confirmed that Salman Butt would continue to serve as Arshad’s Athlete Support Personnel. The POA cited Salman’s experience, performance record, and Arshad’s preference, ensuring that he would accompany Arshad for all training, rehabilitation, and competition activities, including those under the Pakistan Olympic Association and within the IOC Olympic Solidarity Programme.
The POA emphasized its commitment to Arshad’s professional development, mental well-being, and safeguarding, assuring him a “safe, dignified environment free from external interference.” The association also mentioned that a follow-up consultation would be held to review Arshad’s ongoing and future programs. They confirmed that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) would be informed to protect Arshad’s rights under the Olympic Charter and to coordinate with World Athletics at the appropriate time.
Arshad Nadeem is coming off a remarkable year, having won gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a record-breaking throw of 92.97 meters. His partnership with Salman Butt has been central to his success, making the POA’s support crucial as he prepares for upcoming competitions. The Islamic Solidarity Games will serve as another platform for Arshad to showcase his talent while navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing dispute with AFP.
This situation highlights the complexities athletes face when administrative and legal disputes intersect with professional sports careers. Despite the ban, Arshad’s focus remains on training, competing, and continuing his record-breaking performances on the international stage. With the backing of POA and the IOC framework, he is positioned to maintain his trajectory of excellence while ensuring his training and competitive environment remains stable and supportive.
Arshad’s journey underscores the importance of institutional support, athlete rights, and safeguarding mechanisms that prioritize performance and development above organizational conflicts, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to nurturing world-class talent.
