Pakistan hockey legend Shahbaz Ahmed Senior reportedly plans to enter politics

Shahbaz Ahmed Senior, the former Pakistan hockey captain, intends to enter politics and contest the next general election from his hometown of Faisalabad, according to reports on 30 October by ProPakistani and Sangemeel News that cite sources. No formal announcement had been made, and he had not publicly confirmed the plan when this was written.

He is regarded as one of the greatest forwards in the history of the game. Known for his speed, body dodges, dribbling and agility, he earned nicknames including "Maradona of Hockey" and "Man with Electric Heels".

Under his captaincy Pakistan won its last Hockey World Cup title, in 1994. He won the Player of the Tournament award at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, and the report credits him with 92 international goals. He has received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest civil awards.

It was not clear which party he would join, or whether he would stand for the National Assembly or a provincial seat.

This report was corrected and expanded on 1 November 2026. The headline previously said he had decided to enter politics; the sources describe it as a reported plan, so the headline now says so.