Star-Studded Lineup for Neeraj Chopra Classic

India’s Olympic gold medalist in javelin, Neeraj Chopra, is preparing to host the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, a javelin event named in his honor, scheduled for May 24, 2025, in Bengaluru, India.

The prestigious event is set to feature notable athletes including former world champions Anderson Peters and Julius Yego, 2016 Olympic gold medalist Thomas Röhler, and American competitor Curtis Thompson.

According to reports, Arshad Nadeem from Pakistan, who achieved a historic victory by securing Pakistan’s first individual gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a throw of 92.97m, surpassing defending champion Neeraj Chopra, has also received an invitation.

Nadeem’s Olympic achievement marked not only Pakistan’s first athletics medal but also exceeded the prior Olympic record established by Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen.

Despite existing political tensions between India and Pakistan, which have resulted in the suspension of bilateral cricket and other competitions, athletes from both countries continue to compete in international sporting events such as the Olympics.

However, participation in sports events hosted in either country is contingent upon governmental approval.

Chopra stated to reporters, “I have extended an invitation to Arshad, and he mentioned he would consult with his coach before responding. As of now, his participation remains unconfirmed.”

He added, “His participation hinges on government clearance. We will have the complete list once everything is finalized.”

Chopra shared his long-range vision for the event, noting, “This will be an annual affair, and we intend to broaden its scope to incorporate additional disciplines in future iterations.”

“Spectators will have the chance to witness elite throwers competing live. This will significantly benefit local talent, providing them the chance to compete against top-tier athletes,” he further commented.

Chopra, the gold medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics who took silver behind Nadeem in Paris 2024, remains optimistic about his Pakistani rival’s potential participation, although it is currently unconfirmed.