ISLAMABAD: The second Asian Masters Weightlifting and Grand Prix Championship, originally scheduled to take place in Islamabad next month, has been postponed amid ongoing unrest in Iran.
The Pakistan Masters Weightlifting Association (PMWA) announced on Wednesday that the championship will now be held from April 20 to 25, 2026, in the federal capital.
According to the PMWA, the decision was taken following consultations with the International Masters Weightlifting Association (IMWA), which cited several concerns linked to the situation in Iran.
A significant number of members of the Asian Masters Weightlifting Committee are from Iran, and the Asian Masters Weightlifting Secretariat also operates from the country. However, the current lack of internet connectivity in Iran has disrupted coordination and planning.
The IMWA noted that nearly one-quarter of the 21 participating nations are represented by Iranian athletes. Given the uncertainty surrounding travel restrictions, it remains unclear whether Iranian participants would be able to travel to Pakistan for the event, which was originally scheduled from February 6 to 11, 2026.
Additionally, the IMWA highlighted broader travel complications, stating that many international masters athletes, coaches, and technical officials rely on flight routes that pass through Iranian airspace. Recent cancellations by several international and Asian airlines, either to or over Iran, have further complicated travel arrangements.
The IMWA added that registrations for the championship will be reopened, allowing more athletes to take part ahead of the rescheduled dates.