Imran Khan’s nephew Shahrez Khan to represent Pakistan at Asian Games after topping trials

Shahrez Khan, nephew of former prime minister Imran Khan, has emerged as Pakistan’s top qualifier for the national triathlon team ahead of the Asian Games 2026.

Announcing the milestone on Instagram, Shahrez described the moment as the result of years of discipline and training, expressing pride at the opportunity to represent Pakistan on a major international stage. He noted that his focus is now shifting from Ironman competitions to sprint-distance triathlons as he prepares for the Games.

A provisional squad has been named following initial trials, including Shahrez alongside Hamza Asif, Sana Arif and Ayesha Waqas. Officials are expected to conduct additional trials before finalising the team.

Shahrez’s journey into endurance sports began in 2022 after completing a demanding half marathon in Islamabad. Since then, he has competed in multiple Ironman 70.3 events across countries including Luxembourg, Turkey, New Zealand, the Philippines and South Africa.

A standout performance in Puerto Princesa, where he secured seventh place in his age category, placed him among the top tier of global endurance athletes. He went on to become only the second Pakistani to qualify for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship and currently ranks within the top five percent globally in the All World Athlete category.

His path has not been without setbacks. In 2025, a travel ban prevented him from competing in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Marbella — a major blow at the time.

Now, with the Asian Games on the horizon, Shahrez’s qualification marks a significant step forward, both for his personal journey and for Pakistan’s presence in international triathlon competition.