Kenya’s former world javelin champion Julius Yego was among several global stars preparing to compete at the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic in India, a high-profile athletics event that promised to bring international attention to javelin throwing in the region. However, the much-anticipated meet, initially scheduled for May 24 in Bengaluru, has been postponed due to escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan.
The event was to feature an elite lineup, including Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra himself, Grenada’s Anderson Peters, Germany’s Thomas Röhler, and the USA’s Curtis Thompson. Yego, known as the “YouTube Man” for learning javelin techniques online, was expected to be one of the main attractions, marking a strong return to international form.
Neeraj Chopra, the event’s namesake and host, announced the decision, emphasizing that the safety of athletes, officials, and fans was the top priority. “While we were all excited to host this world-class event in India, current geopolitical developments require us to act with caution and responsibility,” Chopra said in a statement.
The competition was envisioned as an annual showcase to elevate the status of javelin in India and inspire young athletes across the region. Its postponement underscores the broader impact of geopolitical conflicts on sports and international collaboration.
Yego, who has been vocal about supporting efforts to promote athletics across Africa and Asia, expressed his support for the decision. “It’s disappointing, but understandable. Safety comes first. We look forward to coming back stronger when the event is rescheduled,” he said on social media.
The Neeraj Chopra Classic was also expected to help Indian athletes test themselves against the world’s best ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics, serving as a valuable opportunity for growth and exposure.
Organizers have not yet announced a new date for the competition but assured that it will be rescheduled once conditions are stable. For now, fans and athletes alike remain hopeful that the spirit of the event—bringing together the best in the world—will shine through when the time is right.
