The countdown to one of Indian athletics’ most significant events has officially begun! On May 24, 2025, Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy of javelin, will bring his iconic event home, hosting the Neeraj Chopra Classic at the historic Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
This will mark the first-ever World Athletics Category ‘A’ meet to be held in India, solidifying India’s growing reputation in the world of elite athletics.
For long, Indian sports fans have been awaiting a moment like this — when a world-class event, under the leadership of a homegrown champion, graces the Indian soil.
And now, it’s a reality. Neeraj Chopra, who has conquered global podiums with his stellar performances, including winning gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, has made sure to bring the world’s finest javelin throwers to India.
A New Chapter for Indian Athletics
The Neeraj Chopra Classic isn’t just another sporting event; it’s a statement. For the first time, Indian fans will witness some of the world’s best javelin throwers, including the likes of Anderson Peters, Thomas Röhler, Julius Yego, and Curtis Thompson, battle it out at the Kanteerava Stadium.
This is the moment Indian athletics fans have been waiting for — a chance to witness world-class talent in their home country.
This event is more than a competition; it’s a launchpad for future champions and a platform to inspire young athletes across India.
The presence of such legendary athletes makes the Neeraj Chopra Classic a must-attend event for fans and aspiring athletes alike.
Neeraj Chopra, who is not only the face of Indian athletics but also one of its finest products, will compete in his own event. Chopra himself confirmed his participation, stating, “I will compete in the NC Classic competition.”
His presence ensures that the event will have the best of both worlds: international stars and the pride of Indian athletics.
Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium: The Ultimate Fortress
Originally scheduled to take place in Panchkula, the Neeraj Chopra Classic has been moved to Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium. The venue holds significant historical value, with its robust infrastructure and a passionate fanbase, making it the perfect setting for such an elite competition.
The Kanteerava Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events, and with the Neeraj Chopra Classic, it will once again roar to life, this time like never before.
The walls of Kanteerava will now carry the weight of unforgettable moments, as javelin stars throw their best in one of the most electric atmospheres in Indian sports.
The roar of the crowd will be heard from every corner of the stadium, and the city’s streets and skies will remember this day for years to come.
The Star-Studded Lineup
The Neeraj Chopra Classic will feature an exciting roster of athletes from around the globe. Alongside Neeraj Chopra, the confirmed athletes include some of the most accomplished names in javelin history.
Anderson Peters, the two-time World Champion from Grenada, will bring his A-game to the competition, as will Thomas Röhler from Germany, the Olympic gold medalist.
Julius Yego, the Kenyan javelin maestro and former World Champion, will also be in attendance, adding yet another layer of excitement to an already stellar lineup.
Neeraj Chopra, speaking about the competition, said, “I am excited that Anderson Peters, Thomas Röhler, Julius Yego, and Curtis Thompson will be competing here. These athletes are among the best in the world, and I am looking forward to a great competition.”
In addition to these international superstars, India’s best javelin throwers will also take to the field. Chopra has mentioned that 3-4 Indian athletes will compete in the event, offering them an opportunity to showcase their talent on home turf, under the watchful eyes of the nation and the world.
A Dream for Arshad Nadeem
One of the most intriguing aspects of this historic event is the potential appearance of Arshad Nadeem, the Olympic javelin champion from Pakistan.
Neeraj Chopra has personally invited Nadeem to participate in the Neeraj Chopra Classic. “I have invited Arshad Nadeem to come and compete at the NC Classic. He told me he will discuss with his coach, but he hasn’t confirmed yet,” Neeraj shared.
If Nadeem accepts the invitation, it would add a thrilling cross-border rivalry to the event, further intensifying the atmosphere and appeal of the competition.
The Future of Indian Athletics
The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is more than just a one-off event — it is a symbol of India’s growing presence in world athletics. The event will serve as a crucial stepping stone for Indian athletics to gain global recognition, encouraging the next generation of Indian athletes to dream big and aim higher.
With the support of athletes like Neeraj Chopra, Indian athletics is poised to achieve greater heights. This event will not only showcase the country’s growing sporting infrastructure but also inspire millions of young Indians to pick up a javelin and aim for the stars.
As the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 approaches, the excitement is palpable. Kanteerava Stadium is ready to roar, and India is ready to witness history in the making.
