Indian javelin throw icon Neeraj Chopra will compete at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, as well as the upcoming Commonwealth Games, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has officially confirmed. The reigning Asian Games champion is steadily recovering from a lower back injury and is expected to peak for both major international events later this year.
AFI Selection Committee Chairman Adille Sumariwalla confirmed that Chopra has already secured qualification for the Asian Games after recording a season-opening throw of 85.69 metres at the Doha Diamond League. Despite beginning his season later than usual due to injury, the two-time Olympic medallist delivered an encouraging performance, raising confidence about his form heading into the championship season.
Speaking about Chopra’s recovery, Sumariwalla expressed optimism over the athlete’s preparations. He noted that Chopra had won the previous Asian Games gold medal with a throw of 88.88 metres and believes there is every reason to expect another strong performance at both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games if his fitness continues to improve.
The 28-year-old star had sustained a lower back injury before the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, delaying his return to competition. However, his successful comeback in Doha has reassured Indian athletics officials that he remains on track for another medal-winning campaign. The AFI has also left the decision regarding any additional competitions before the Commonwealth Games to Chopra and his support team, allowing them to carefully manage his workload and recovery.
The men’s javelin competition at the Asian Games is expected to be one of the most competitive events of the tournament. Chopra could face Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem if he competes, while Sri Lanka’s rising star Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who crossed the 90-metre mark earlier this year and claimed multiple Diamond League victories, is also expected to challenge for the podium.
With India aiming for another successful athletics campaign, Chopra remains one of the country’s biggest medal hopes. The AFI is focused on ensuring that the Olympic champion reaches peak fitness for both the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Asian Games in Japan, where he will look to defend his continental crown and further strengthen his legacy in world athletics.