Why is Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem missing Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025?

Pakistan’s top javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem is the reigning Olympic champion.

The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is set to make history as India’s first-ever World Athletics gold-label javelin meet. To be hosted in Bengaluru, the event brings together elite throwers from around the world in what is set to be the biggest-ever athletics meet held in India.

However, the event will miss the defending Olympic champion, Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan, who will not be participating in the competition. Nadeem’s face-offs with Neeraj Chopra in global tournaments have often been thrilling and closely watched, making his absence particularly notable for Indian fans.

With sporting rivalries that transcend borders, a potential Neeraj Chopra vs Arshad Nadeem clash would have been a highlight of the event. However, political tensions and scheduling conflicts have kept that prospect on hold, at least for now.

When and where will Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 take place?

The Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 will take place on Saturday, July 5, at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This venue, known for hosting elite national meets, is set to witness a star-studded line-up beginning at 7:00 PM IST.

The event marks a milestone moment for Indian track and field, as it becomes the first time the country hosts a World Athletics Gold-label competition in the javelin category. The meet has been conceptualized and initiated by Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra himself, in collaboration with the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).

Originally scheduled for May 24, the event was postponed in light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. With the new date now confirmed, athletes and fans alike are geared up for a world-class display of javelin excellence on Indian soil.

ALSO READ: Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025: Full schedule, timings & live streaming details

Why is Arshad Nadeem not competing?

Pakistan’s top javelin thrower and Neeraj Chopra’s long-time competitor was formally invited to the Neeraj Chopra Classic. However, he declined participation, citing security concerns and scheduling conflicts. The decision came after India-Pakistan relations deteriorated earlier this year due to cross-border tensions.

The timing of the original event clashed with the Asian Athletics Championships (May 27–31) in South Korea, where Nadeem had committed to competing. With the Neeraj Chopra Classic initially scheduled for May 24 and later postponed, Nadeem’s training cycle was reportedly affected, prompting him to skip the Bengaluru meet altogether.

In media interactions, Nadeem avoided commenting directly on Chopra, stating, “I will not say anything about Neeraj because of the ongoing conflict with India,” and added, “I will always stand with my army and my country.” His words underscore how the sport, despite its unifying nature, remains influenced by larger geopolitical dynamics.

The absence of Arshad Nadeem has drawn regret from fellow competitors. Former world champion Julius Yego called it a “shame,” saying the meet would have benefitted greatly from the Pakistani athlete’s presence. Many believe his absence is a missed opportunity to build sporting camaraderie beyond borders.

Who are the top athletes competing in Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025?

Despite Nadeem’s absence, the event boasts one of the strongest javelin line-ups ever assembled on Indian soil. Headlining the field is India’s own Neeraj Chopra, Tokyo 2020 gold medallist and reigning world champion, looking to push past the 90m mark.

Joining him are major international names like Thomas Röhler of Germany, a former Olympic champion; Julius Yego of Kenya, the 2015 World Champion; Curtis Thompson from the United States, currently leading the world rankings, is also a key name to watch.

Also Read: Top five athletes to watch at Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025

The meet also features talents from Europe and South America, including Martin Konečný (CZE), Cyprian Mrzyglód (POL), and Luiz Mauricio da Silva (BRA). Rising javelin throwers from Sri Lanka, the UAE, and South Korea round out the international contingent.

India’s young guns—Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Sahil Silwal, and Yashvir Singh—will also be in action, hoping to impress on the home stage. With such a deep field, fans can expect high-quality throws, potential personal bests, and even national records.

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