Here’s why Panchkula lost out on hosting Neeraj Chopra Classic event, know where it’s shifted

The inaugural ‘Neeraj Chopra Classic’, a marquee javelin throw event named after India’s Olympic champion, will now be held in Bengaluru instead of Panchkula, owing to some technical issues raised by World Athletics.

The event is a World Athletics Category A competition and was scheduled for May 24 at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium—the same stadium where Chopra practiced during the early days of his career.

Chopra, while talking to the media, confirmed that after World Athletics officials raised some technical issues (such as lighting not up to the 600-lux standard, open field layout, and other concerns), the event has now been shifted to the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, Bengaluru.

It will feature top javelin throwers from around the world, including Chopra, the Olympic champion.

“Initially, it was planned for Panchkula, but after spotting some technical requirements, it has now been shifted to Bengaluru this year,” said Chopra, who maintained that this will now be an annual event to be held in India.

“I am very excited. There will be many international javelin throwers participating in it. I have also invited Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem for the event. He will discuss the same with his coach and revert,” said Chopra.

“There were a lot of questions going around… people asking what’s next after the Olympics, Diamond League, World Championships and all… so this (the tournament) is my ultimate excitement point now,” he added.

Chopra also opened up about his deeper involvement in the organisation of the event.

“I have never gone into such details—whether lights should be adequate for live telecasting, what food should be served, how to organise the medal ceremony, or whether the washrooms and changing rooms are comfortable for international javelin throwers. I’ve never considered such things while playing. But since I’m one of the hosts now… I’m trying to make it happen in a very professional manner,” said Chopra.

He also reflected on the change in venue and the upcoming plans.

“Everything was planned in Panchkula. However, since the event is now being shifted, the plans—seating, ticket pricing, timings—will be finalised in a couple of days. The weather in Haryana remains hot in May; hopefully, Bengaluru will be pleasant enough. I’ve spent some good time in Bengaluru, experienced some exciting football games at the same stadium… so I’m excited to be coming back,” he added.

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