India Rules Out Bilateral Sports Ties With Pakistan
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- May 07, 2026
- 459
The Union Sports Ministry has reiterated that bilateral sporting ties between India and Pakistan will remain suspended, aligning sports engagement with India’s broader diplomatic policy.
In an official memorandum issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports stated that Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan for bilateral competitions, and Pakistani teams will likewise not be permitted to participate in bilateral events hosted in India. However, the directive clarified that both nations can continue competing against each other in multilateral tournaments such as the Olympics, World Cups, and continental championships.
The circular has been sent to the Indian Olympic Association, the Sports Authority of India, and all national sports federations. The ministry emphasized that India’s position on Pakistan remains “clear and consistent,” indicating that sporting relations would continue to mirror diplomatic realities.
The announcement coincides with the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, launched in response to last year’s Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians were killed.
Cricket remains the most affected sport under the policy. The last bilateral cricket series between the two countries was held in 2012–13, when Pakistan toured India. Since then, the arch-rivals have only met in multinational competitions such as ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
The issue resurfaced prominently during discussions surrounding the 2025 Champions Trophy, with India maintaining its position against sending the national team across the border for bilateral or standalone events hosted in Pakistan.
At the same time, the government has moved to ease visa regulations for international sporting officials as part of efforts to position India as a major global sporting destination.
Under the revised policy, athletes, technical staff, and officials associated with international sporting bodies will receive simplified visa procedures. Senior office-bearers of international sports organisations will also be eligible for priority multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years during their tenure. The government further stated that visiting heads of global sports bodies would be accorded appropriate protocol and official courtesies during visits to India.