PFL Awards Rs1 Million to Footballer Muhammad Riaz After Viral Video
In a heartwarming turn of events, the Pakistan Football League (PFL) has announced a Rs1 million prize and a guaranteed role in the league for Muhammad Riaz, a former national football star who recently made headlines after a video of him selling jalebis went viral. This gesture comes after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally invited Riaz to the Prime Minister House, acknowledging his struggles.
Muhammad Riaz, who once proudly represented Pakistan in the 2018 Asian Games, found himself jobless after his former department, K-Electric, disbanded its football team following the previous government’s controversial decision to suspend departmental sports. Left without options, Riaz turned to selling jalebis in his hometown of Hangu to support his family.
Moved by his story, PFL Chairman Farhan Junejo announced the prize money and a dedicated position in the league, reaffirming PFL’s mission to revive football in Pakistan. “Muhammad Riaz is a prime example of the immense talent that has been overlooked due to a lack of support and infrastructure. We want to ensure that players like him get the recognition and opportunities they deserve,” Junejo stated.
In addition to the financial reward, Riaz will play a pivotal role in nurturing local talent, spearheading initiatives to help aspiring footballers receive proper training and exposure. The PFL also plans to arrange international training opportunities for him, ensuring that his skills are honed and showcased on a global stage.
Expressing his gratitude, Riaz thanked the PFL and Chairman Junejo for recognizing his struggles and providing him with a chance to reignite his football career. “I am committed to working with the PFL to ensure that no other player has to go through what I did. This support means the world to me, and I will do my best to give back to the game I love,” Riaz said.
The PFL’s initiative not only marks a new chapter for Muhammad Riaz but also symbolizes hope for countless other talented footballers in Pakistan, ensuring their dreams don’t fade away due to a lack of resources and opportunities. The Indus Examiner covered this inspiring development, shedding light on the importance of supporting local sports talent.