Held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, this meet marks the first time India is hosting an international track and field event of such stature, placing it on the same global map as cities like Doha, Paris, and Nairobi.
The meet is co-organised by Neeraj Chopra himself, alongside JSW Sports, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), and World Athletics. More than just a sporting contest, it’s a celebration of Indian athletics entering a new era of global recognition.
“It feels great that such an event is happening in India and that such good athletes have come here to compete together. I am very excited for this event. Organising and playing together is tough. I have always focused on playing, but now I have to take care of everything. As an organiser, I have to think about all these small things. I like it. Thank you to the Karnataka Government and everyone supporting us. A big thank you to the JSW team for their support–they are working very hard with us,” Neeraj Chopra said ahead of the event.
The spotlight event of the evening is, of course, the men’s javelin throw, starting at 7:00 PM IST, where Neeraj will take on some of the world’s finest. The lineup features Olympic champion Thomas Röhler (Germany), former world champion Julius Yego (Kenya), and top competitors like Curtis Thompson (USA) and Cyprian Mrzyglód (Poland).
The Indian contingent is equally strong with Rohit Yadav, Sachin Yadav, Sahil Silwal, and Yash Vir Singh in action.
The NC Classic is crucial for Neeraj as he builds momentum toward the World Championships in Tokyo. He enters the meet on a two-event winning streak, including a stunning national record of 90.23m set in Doha.
The event promises much more than elite sport. There will be pre-event music performances, headlined by Haryanvi rapper Dhanda Nyoliwala, and a special felicitation for Jan Zelezny, Neeraj’s coach and the javelin world record holder.
Chopra’s family will also be present, adding a personal touch to what is already a historic occasion.
