The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has imposed a lifetime ban on Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Iqbal Butt for “gross misconduct and violation of the federation’s constitution”.
According to an official notification, Butt, who served as president of the Punjab Athletics Association (PAA), and Syed Habib Shah, the association’s former secretary, were found guilty of holding illegal elections for the Punjab Athletics Association.
The issue began when Butt and Shah announced the Punjab Athletics Association elections on August 29, 2025, giving only one day’s notice. The elections were held on August 31 in clear violation of the AFP’s constitutional election procedures. Despite receiving an official warning on August 30 to stop the process and follow the proper legal framework, both officials went ahead with the elections.
An inquiry committee was formed by the federation on September 24 to investigate the matter. The committee summoned both individuals to present their explanation but neither appeared nor submitted a written reply. After reviewing all available records, the committee presented its report to the Executive Committee.
In its meeting on October 10, 2025, the AFP Executive Committee concluded that Salman Butt and Habib Shah had deliberately violated the federation’s constitution, disobeyed lawful directives, and acted against the integrity and harmony of the sport’s administration.
The federation declared the Punjab Athletics Association elections held on August 31 as null and void and announced that fresh elections will be conducted under the AFP’s supervision.
The AFP also directed all affiliated member units to end official dealings with Salman Butt and Habib Shah and to comply fully with the new directive.
Copies of the decision have been shared with World Athletics, Asian Athletics, and the Pakistan Sports Board, while Shah has also been banned for 10 years.