A former owner of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise has thrown his hat into the ring as a surprise bidder in the race to secure rights for a new Pakistan Football League, signaling fresh interest from high-profile investors in reviving domestic football.
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) recently invited expressions of interest from individuals and companies aiming to launch a sustainable and competitive football league structure in the country. Among the bidders is Ali Tareen, who previously owned the Multan Sultans franchise in the PSL before parting ways with the cricket league earlier this year.
Tareen’s proposal differs from typical franchise league models, focusing on a long-term season format with features such as home and away fixtures, equity ownership for teams, and mandatory women’s teams, aiming to build enduring fan engagement and value for the sport.
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Alongside Tareen, two other bidders have submitted proposals, each with distinct visions for establishing a football league that can enhance Pakistan’s football ecosystem. One bid comes from an entity that previously organised events for a proposed franchise league, while another bidder is seeking to introduce a more traditional league structure.
The PFF is expected to review the detailed bids and make a decision on which proposal to endorse, with presentations scheduled before the governing body in the coming weeks. The outcome will play a key role in shaping the future of professional football competitions in Pakistan after years without a fully functioning national league format.
