India’s Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has taken a major step beyond competitive sport by launching his own athlete management company, Vel Sports, marking the end of his nearly decade-long partnership with JSW Sports.
Chopra, who has been one of the most influential figures in Indian athletics over the past decade, announced the decision as a mutual and respectful separation. His association with JSW Sports began in 2016, when he was still an emerging talent. Since then, the partnership played a key role in shaping his journey from a promising junior athlete to a global sporting icon.
Under JSW Sports’ management, Chopra achieved historic milestones, including India’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics at the Tokyo Games, a World Championship gold medal, and continued podium finishes at major international events. The collaboration also helped him access world-class training facilities, international exposure, and professional support systems essential for elite performance.
With the launch of Vel Sports, Chopra enters the world of sports entrepreneurship while continuing his active athletic career. The new firm is expected to focus on athlete representation, career planning, and professional management, reflecting Chopra’s desire to contribute to the sporting ecosystem beyond personal achievements. Though detailed operational plans of Vel Sports are yet to be revealed, the move signals Chopra’s intention to support the next generation of athletes using his experience and global exposure.
In his statement, Chopra expressed gratitude toward JSW Sports for standing by him during the most defining years of his career and emphasized that the decision was made with mutual respect and understanding. JSW Sports also acknowledged the end of the partnership warmly, praising Chopra’s discipline, humility, and historic contributions to Indian sport.
Chopra’s transition comes at a time when elite athletes worldwide are increasingly taking ownership of their professional journeys. By establishing Vel Sports, he joins a growing group of sportspersons who are shaping their post-competition legacy while remaining active at the highest level.
As Neeraj Chopra continues to prepare for upcoming international competitions, his new role as a founder and mentor adds another dimension to his legacy — one that could influence the future of athlete management in India.