CE DESK 
Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra launches Vel Sports, a new athlete management firm offering training, sponsorships, and global exposure to nurture India’s emerging track and field talents from rural areas.
Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has ventured into sports management by launching Vel Sports, a firm dedicated to nurturing India’s next generation of elite athletes. The initiative reflects Chopra’s commitment to giving back to the sport that propelled him to global stardom, addressing key gaps in professional support for emerging talents.
Vel Sports will offer comprehensive services, including personalized training programs, sponsorship negotiations, mental conditioning, and international exposure opportunities. Chopra, drawing from his own journey with limited early resources, aims to scout and develop athletes across track and field disciplines. The firm targets 50 athletes in its first year, with a focus on rural and small-town prodigies who often lack access to world-class coaching and facilities.
Backed by strategic investors and Chopra’s personal brand equity, Vel Sports plans to partner with global federations and brands for funding and visibility. Chopra emphasized holistic athlete development, stating, “Medals are won on the field, but careers are built off it.” Industry observers praise the move as a game-changer for Indian athletics, potentially rivaling private academies. With Chopra’s halo effect, Vel Sports is poised to redefine athlete management in India.
