Neeraj Chopra's Future in Javelin Throw at Commonwealth Games 2026 Uncertain

As the Commonwealth Games 2026 approaches, India faces a significant setback with no javelin throwers qualifying for the event. Neeraj Chopra, who has been pivotal in popularizing the sport, is likely to miss the competition as he focuses on recovery and upcoming events. The National Federation Cup revealed concerns about India's depth in javelin throw, with no athletes meeting the qualification mark. National coach Radhakrishnan Nair confirmed Neeraj's fitness and potential participation, depending on his performance in June. This article delves into the current state of Indian javelin throw and Neeraj's journey ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2026, 13:19 IST

No Indian Javelin Thrower at CWG 2026

India will not have any representation in the javelin throw event at the upcoming Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2026. Although Neeraj Chopra has significantly popularized the sport in the country, he is expected to miss this event as he prioritizes his recovery and preparation for a demanding schedule ahead, which includes defending his gold medal at the Asian Games. With Neeraj absent, attention turned to the other Indian athletes, but they were unable to qualify for the CWG, raising concerns about the country's talent pool in javelin throw.

During the National Federation Cup 2026, no Indian athlete achieved the qualification mark of 82.61m for the Commonwealth Games. Shivam Lohakare secured the gold medal with a throw of 81.71m, which was insufficient for CWG qualification. Yashvir Singh from Rajasthan came in second with a throw of 80.80m, while Rohit Yadav from Railway Sports finished third with 80.40m. Kishore Kumar Jena, a promising javelin thrower, struggled and ended up seventh with a best throw of only 73.42m.

Prospects for Neeraj Chopra's Participation

How Can Neeraj Chopra Participate In CWC 2026?

Radhakrishnan Nair, the national athletics head coach, has stated that Neeraj Chopra is fit and is set to begin competing in June. He mentioned that if Neeraj performs well, he will be considered for selection for the CWG. Nair confirmed, “Neeraj doesn’t have any back issues. He’ll be competing (in June). If he does well, we will definitely select him... provided he performs better than the athletes participating here.” This statement was made during the Federation athletics meet, which serves as the final qualifying event for the CWG.

When asked if Neeraj, who missed the 2022 CWG, could compete in both the CWG and the Asian Games, Nair replied, “Let’s see how he performs in June.” Currently, Neeraj is undergoing rehabilitation in Turkiye and is expected to travel to Germany soon. He may aim for several upcoming events, including the Irena Szewiska Memorial in Poland on May 29, the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland on June 3, the Ostrava Golden Spike in Czechia on June 16, and the FBK Games in the Netherlands on June 21, marking his potential return to competitive javelin throw.