India's javelin ace Neeraj Chopra is set to defend his Asian Games crown after the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed his participation in the continental showpiece later this year. The announcement comes as the Olympic medallist continues his comeback from a lower back injury that delayed the start of his 2026 campaign.
Chopra, who returned to competition with an 85.69m effort at the Doha Diamond League, has already secured qualification for both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. The AFI has now confirmed that the 28-year-old will compete in both events as he targets another successful international season.
AFI confirms Neeraj Chopra's Asian Games participation
AFI selection committee chairman Adille Sumariwalla expressed confidence in Chopra's recovery, stating that the Indian star remains on course to compete at both major championships.
"Yes. He will participate both in the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. He has qualified already and he is recovering."
Sumariwalla also backed Neeraj Chopra to challenge for top honours despite his delayed return to action.
"He has done 86m in his very first event, which is fantastic... we see no reason why he will not do well in both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games."
The AFI is expected to officially announce India's athletics squad for the Asian Games following the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships.
Chopra eyes successful title defence
Chopra enters the Asian Games as the defending champion after winning gold with a throw of 88.88m at Hangzhou in 2023. This year's competition, however, promises to be significantly more competitive.
Among his expected challengers is Sri Lanka's rising star Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who has already breached the 90-metre mark this season and claimed multiple Diamond League victories. Pakistan's Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem could also feature, potentially setting up another blockbuster rivalry in men's javelin.
The AFI has left Chopra's pre-Commonwealth Games schedule to his coaching and medical team, with the primary objective of ensuring he reaches peak fitness for both major tournaments.
Having successfully returned from injury, Neeraj Chopra will now look to build momentum over the coming weeks as he prepares to defend one of the biggest titles of his decorated career.