Neeraj Chopra to train in Potchefstroom ahead of upcoming season under new coach Jai Chaudhary
(Courtesy : @Neeraj_chopra1/Twitter)
Sports Ministry approved INR 11.80 lakh for Neeraj Chopra’s training.
Two-time Olympic medallist and India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has begun his pre-season preparations at Potchefstroom in South Africa as he gears up for the 2026 athletics season.
The Sports Ministry’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved a 32-day overseas training camp for Chopra, who will now work under the guidance of his new coach, Jai Chaudhary.
Chopra’s support staff for the camp includes his long-time physiotherapist, Ishaan Marwaha, ensuring continuity in his recovery and injury management process.
The 28-year-old recently parted ways with Czech javelin legend Jan Zelezny, bringing an end to their short but high-profile association.
Chopra has chosen to reunite with Chaudhary, his formative coach, who played a key role in shaping his early career and continues to train javelin throwers in Panipat, Chopra’s hometown in Haryana.
According to a PTI report, Chopra will train in Potchefstroom until February 5, with the total sanctioned assistance for the camp amounting to Rs. 11.80 lakh.
Potchefstroom is regarded as one of the world’s premier bases for javelin throwers, regularly hosting elite athletes due to its world-class facilities and favourable training conditions.
The approval came after the Mission Olympic Cell, which oversees financial and logistical support for elite athletes under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), met in New Delhi earlier this week.
“The focused training block is aimed at sharpening his physical conditioning, strength, and technical consistency ahead of marquee events lined up this year, including the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games,” the SAI source told PTI.
Also Read: Top five longest throws in men’s javelin in 2025 season
The official further added that the approved assistance will cover training camp expenses, local logistics, gym and training ground access, airport transfers, and daily out-of-pocket allowances.
Chopra is looking to build a strong and uninterrupted preparation phase after a challenging 2025 season. Although he achieved a major personal milestone by breaching the 90-meter mark for the first time at the Doha Diamond League, his campaign was affected by an adductor muscle issue.
The injury hampered his rhythm through the season and culminated in a disappointing eighth-place finish at the World Championships in Tokyo in September, where he entered as the defending champion.
Chopra is expected to open his 2026 competitive season at the Doha Diamond League in May, marking the beginning of another crucial year as he targets peak form for major multi-sport events on the international calendar.
Where is Neeraj Chopra currently training?
Neeraj Chopra is training in Potchefstroom, South Africa, which is considered one of the best training hubs in the world for javelin throwers.
How long will Neeraj Chopra stay in South Africa?
He will train there for 32 days, until February 5, 2026.
Who is Neeraj Chopra’s coach now?
Chopra is being coached by Jai Chaudhary, his former and formative coach from Panipat, after parting ways with Czech legend Jan Zelezny.
Who is part of Chopra’s support team?
His long-time physiotherapist Ishaan Marwaha is part of his support staff to help with recovery and injury management.
Who approved Chopra’s overseas training camp?
The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) under the Sports Ministry approved the camp through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
How much has been sanctioned for the training camp?
The total approved assistance is ₹11.80 lakh, covering travel, training facilities, accommodation, gym access, and daily expenses.
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Farzan is a journalist at Khel Now covering Indian Olympic sports and kabaddi. With five years of experience working with major sports organizations like Chennaiyin FC, Dabang Delhi K.C., Rajasthan Royals, and Yuva Kabaddi Series, he brings diverse expertise. Farzan has covered two Olympics, one Commonwealth Games, and one Asian Games, making his knowledge of Indian sports broad and versatile.