Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra has announced the postponement of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 javelin throw competition
The inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, originally scheduled for May 24, 2025, at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium, has been postponed indefinitely due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Organizers announced the decision on May 9, citing the safety and well-being of athletes, stakeholders, and the broader community as their top priority. They emphasized that while sport has the power to unite, standing in solidarity with the nation takes precedence during this critical time.
The event was set to be India’s first international javelin competition, featuring top global throwers, including Olympic and world champions. It also served as a qualifier for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
This postponement follows a series of retaliatory measures between India and Pakistan after a deadly attack in Kashmir that claimed 26 lives. Both nations have closed their only open land border, shut airspace for each other’s airlines, and suspended diplomatic ties. In the realm of sports, Neeraj Chopra had earlier rescinded an invitation to Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, stating that participation was “completely out of the question” following the attack.
The organizers have stated that a revised schedule for the Neeraj Chopra Classic will be announced once the situation improves.
