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Neeraj Chopra to Host Star-Studded International Javelin Event in Bengaluru This May
Bengaluru, India – April 21, 2024 — Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra is set to host a high-profile international javelin event in Bengaluru this May, bringing together some of the world’s best throwers for a single-day showdown. The event, organized by JSW Sports, will take place at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, shifting from its initially planned venue in Haryana due to technical requirements.
In a media interaction, Neeraj shared his excitement and revealed that invitations have been extended to elite athletes across the globe, including Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem, his long-time rival and friend. “Yes, I have spoken to Arshad Nadeem,” Neeraj said. “He’s considering the invite and will confirm after consulting his coach. If he comes, it will involve government approvals too.”
The prospect of Arshad competing in India adds a diplomatic layer to the sporting spectacle, making the event a possible symbol of cross-border sportsmanship.
Among the confirmed participants are some of the biggest names in the world of javelin:
- Anderson Peters – Two-time World Champion & Olympic Bronze Medallist
- Thomas Röhler – Former Olympic Champion
- Yulius Yego – Olympic Medallist & Former World Champion
- Curtis Thompson – Current World Leader from the USA
Several top athletes from Europe, Asia, and other regions are also expected to join.
Neeraj confirmed that Indian athletes including Rohit Yadav will participate alongside him. The event will also serve as a major warm-up before the Paris 2024 Olympics, boosting India’s global standing in athletics.
The decision to move the event to Bengaluru was based on lighting limitations at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, Haryana. “The lighting there was just 600 lux, but for international broadcasting, we needed a higher standard. There wasn’t enough time to upgrade it,” Neeraj explained.
A conversation with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah helped finalize Bengaluru as the host city, following his assurance of support for the mega event.
With this, Neeraj Chopra is not just cementing his legacy as a world-class athlete but also as a sports ambassador, aiming to put India on the map for international track and field events.
