New Delhi: The first edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic is set to occur at Sri Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on May 24, drawing some of the top javelin throwers from around the globe. Among those confirmed to compete are two-time world champion Anderson Peters, American athlete Curtis Thompson, who leads the season with a throw of 87.76 meters, 2016 Olympic champion Thomas Rohler from Germany, and Kenya's Julius Yego, the silver medallist from the Rio Olympics and 2015 world champion.

The standout figure in this prestigious lineup will undoubtedly be Neeraj Chopra, the current world champion and a two-time Olympic medallist.

"Yes, I will be participating as well," Neeraj Chopra stated with enthusiasm, proudly mentioning the names of his fellow competitors.

An invitation has also been extended to Arshad Nadeem, the Paris Olympics Champion from Pakistan, although he has not yet confirmed his attendance.

"I have reached out to Arshad and invited him to join us. He is currently discussing it with his coach, and we will inform you once he confirms his participation," Neeraj mentioned during a press conference from his location in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

There will be an increase in the number of Indian participants, with four to five additional names expected. Leading throwers from the current National Senior Federation Cup in Kochi will have the chance to compete alongside international stars.

Originally, the World Athletics (WA) event was set to occur in Panchkula, Haryana; however, it has been relocated to Bengaluru due to technical difficulties at the initial venue. WA suggested this change.

"There were some lighting issues for broadcasters, which prevented the event from taking place in Panchkula. Although I had hoped for it to be held in my hometown, the most crucial aspect is that it is happening in India. I have fond memories of Bengaluru, and it serves as an excellent venue to launch this international competition. I am thrilled to be involved in this event and to contribute (alongside JSW and AFI as organizers) to bringing a world-class track and field event to India. It is a dream come true for me," stated Neeraj.

This event marks a unique milestone in Indian athletics, featuring the country's most prominent star. Similar events, such as the Mondo Classic—named after pole vault champion Mondo Duplantis—held in his hometown of Uppsala, Sweden, enable international track and field athletes to showcase their talents and elevate the sport's profile in their respective countries.

Neeraj Chopra has already made significant strides in Indian sports, and he hopes this event will set new benchmarks for Indian athletics.

"I have earned medals at the Olympics and world championships, which I keep at home. However, this event represents something new, allowing me to give back to the sport. I want to see athletics flourish in this country. I encourage parents to bring their children to witness the world's top athletes, to understand what it takes to compete at that level, and to experience the excitement of seeing the best in action. Such experiences are vital for the growth of athletics in India," Neeraj expressed.

When asked about ticket availability, Neeraj replied, "Yes, but the number will be limited."

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