TOKYO, JAPAN – SEPTEMBER 17: Arshad Nadeem of Team Pakistan reacts during the Men’s Javelin Throw Qualification on day five of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025 at National Stadium on September 17, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

The Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation has imposed a lifetime ban on Salman Iqbal, the long-serving coach of top athlete Arshad Nadeem, for violating the constitution of the Punjab Athletics Association. The ban, announced on Sunday in Lahore, prevents Iqbal from participating in any athletics activities, coaching, or holding office at any level.The ban stems from violations related to elections held for the Punjab Athletics Association in August, where Iqbal serves as President. An inquiry committee formed in mid-September recommended the ban on October 10.The timing of the ban appears connected to Iqbal’s recent response to the Pakistan Sports Board regarding Nadeem’s performance at the World Athletics Championship in Tokyo. The PSB had sought explanations for Nadeem’s poor showing and details about his training and travel expenses.Iqbal’s response revealed that the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation had distanced itself from Nadeem’s activities over the past year. He also disclosed that he had to seek financial assistance from a friend to fund Nadeem’s training in South Africa and rehabilitation following a calf muscle injury.The inquiry committee’s recommendation came just one day after Iqbal’s reply to the PSB was made public. The federation’s decision effectively ends Iqbal’s involvement with Pakistan athletics at all levels.

The ban impacts one of Pakistan’s most experienced athletics coaches, who has been instrumental in mentoring Arshad Nadeem. The decision raises questions about the future of Nadeem’s training and development program.The federation’s action represents a significant development in Pakistan’s athletics administration, affecting both the coaching structure and athlete support system.