The federal government has taken notice of the lifetime ban imposed by the Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) on Olympian Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Butt, and has ordered a high-level inquiry into the matter.
According to reports, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has been directed to conduct an immediate and comprehensive investigation. The inquiry will examine the reasons and motivations behind the controversial decision made by the Athletics Federation.
Officials said the PSB has also been instructed to submit its findings to the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination once the report is completed.
The development comes after the Athletics Federation recently banned coach Salman Iqbal Butt for life, accusing him of “gross misconduct and violation of the federation’s constitution.” The federation alleged that Butt, who was serving as president of the Punjab Athletics Association (PAA), and former secretary Syed Habib Shah, held illegal elections for the association.
According to the AFP, Butt and Shah announced elections for the Punjab Athletics Association on August 29, 2025, giving only one day’s notice. The elections were held on August 31, despite the federation’s official warning on August 30 to halt the process and follow the proper legal framework.
A three-member inquiry committee was later formed by the federation on September 24 to investigate the issue. The committee summoned both officials to explain their actions, but neither appeared nor submitted a written response. After reviewing the records, the AFP’s Executive Committee decided on October 10, 2025, that both individuals had violated the federation’s constitution and disobeyed lawful directives.
The AFP declared the August 31 elections null and void and announced that fresh elections would be held under its supervision. It also directed all member units to end official dealings with Butt and Shah. Copies of the decision were shared with World Athletics, Asian Athletics, and the Pakistan Sports Board.
Salman Butt, however, rejected the accusations, calling the ban “baseless and vindictive.” He said he would continue to guide Arshad Nadeem despite the federation’s decision.