Salman Iqbal, coach of Pakistan's top javelin throw athlete Arshad Nadeem, has been banned for life by the country's Athletics Federation of Pakistan (PAAF). The federation took this action on charges of violating the constitution of the Punjab Athletics Association.
Sports News: Salman Iqbal, coach of Pakistan's top javelin throw athlete Arshad Nadeem, has been banned for life by the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (PAAF). The federation took this action on charges of violating the constitution of the Punjab Athletics Association, where Salman Iqbal held the position of president. Following this decision, Salman will no longer be able to participate in athletics activities, coaching, or administrative roles at any level.
It was under Salman Iqbal's guidance that Arshad won an Olympic gold medal in Paris in 2024. Due to his ban, Pakistan's Olympic medal contender has now been deprived of his head coach, which could impact his career preparation and upcoming international tournaments.
What is the matter?
According to the Federation, Salman Iqbal conducted elections for the Punjab Athletics Association in August 2025, which were against the organization's rules. A fact-finding committee was formed in mid-September to investigate the matter. On October 10, the committee recommended a lifetime ban for Salman Iqbal.
The Federation states that Iqbal's action was a violation of the organization's constitution and was considered undisciplined conduct. Based on this, PAAF decided to impose a lifetime ban on the coach.
Iqbal revealed several shocking aspects
Another aspect of this decision is believed to be linked to the World Athletics Championship in Tokyo, where Arshad Nadeem's performance was not as expected. Following this performance, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) sought an explanation from coach Salman Iqbal. The Federation also requested details of the funds spent on Arshad's training and travel.
In his response, Salman Iqbal made several shocking revelations. He stated that for the past year, the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation had completely distanced itself from Arshad Nadeem. The Federation did not cover any expenses for his training, rehab, or foreign camps.
Salman also revealed that he had to seek financial assistance from his friends for Arshad's training and rehabilitation. He personally bore the expenses for Arshad's training in South Africa and his recovery program after a muscle injury. His statement angered Federation officials, and subsequently, action against him accelerated.
