The first edition of the ‘Neeraj Chopra Classic’, a flagship javelin throw tournament named after India’s Olympic champion, is all set to take place in Bengaluru on May 24.
Neeraj Chopra addressed the media at a virtual news conference hosted by JSW to promote the forthcoming international javelin tournament. The event was first going to be held in Panchkula, but due to technical difficulties identified by World Athletics, it will now be held in Bangalore. The World Athletics Category A tournament was set at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium, where Chopra practised early in his career.
Chopra confirmed to the media that the event, which will be hosted in collaboration with JSW, has been moved to the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru after World Athletics authorities highlighted several technical difficulties (such as lighting that did not meet the 600-lux level, an open field layout, and other concerns).
It will include elite javelin throwers from across the world, including Chopra, an Olympic winner.
On the event, Neeraj Chopra said, “Initially, it was planned for Panchkula, but after spotting some technical requirements, it has now been shifted to Bengaluru this year. I am very excited. There will be many international javelin throwers participating in it. I have also invited Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem for the event. He will discuss the same with his coach and revert. There were a lot of questions going around… people asking what’s next after the Olympics, Diamond League, World Championships and all… so this (the tournament) is my ultimate excitement point now.”
The Kanteerava Stadium, which additionally serves as the home stadium for the Indian Super League (ISL) powerhouse Bengaluru FC, has international-standard lighting, which is essential for an event of this size.
The NC Classic, which is accredited by World Athletics, awards the same ranking points as a Continental Tour Gold event. As part of the World Athletics Continental Tour, the event is expected to become a renowned destination for javelin throwers throughout the world. It also acts as a qualification event for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, which Neeraj has already qualified for.
This will be Neeraj Chopra’s first home match since the 2024 Federation Cup in Bhubaneswar, adding a personal depth to an already high-profile sport.
Furthermore, the Karnataka state government has guaranteed full support for the event, with Neeraj confirming contact with the Chief Minister, who has promised all assistance necessary to ensure its success.