Neeraj Chopra to train with coach Klaus Bartonietz at least till 2024 Paris Olympics after AFI extend contract

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra will continue to train with his German coach Klaus Bartonietz, whose contract has been extended till the 2024 Paris Games, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed on Sunday (January 3). After winning the historic Olympic gold in Tokyo, javelin thrower Chopra had expressed desire to continue to train with the German bio-mechanical expert.

“We have secured the services of Olympic Games javelin throw gold medallist Neeraj Chopra’s coach Dr. Klaus Bartonietz till the 2024 Paris Games,” the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) said.

Bartonietz took charge as Chopra’s coach from compatriot and former world record holder javelin thrower Uwe Hohn during the youngster's rehabilitation and recovery process after an elbow surgery in 2018. The AFI also said that the 400m coach Galina Bukharina will also remain at the helm of affairs till the end of this year’s Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

Under Bukharina’s watch, the men’s 4x400m relay team of Mohammed Anas Yahiya, Noah Nirmal Tom, Arokia Rajiv and Amoj Jacob set an Asian record during the Tokyo Olympics. The AFI had recently presented the Annual Calendar for Training and Competition to the Sports Ministry.

Currently, Neeraj is cutting out the weight he gained during the layoff months. Speaking to journalists from California, he said he has been able to reduce 5 kgs so far. And in due course, he will be able to get back to past fitness levels.

It's time to put the past to rest and focus on the future. Have arrived for my off-season training and look forward to restarting the process of getting better.

Immensely grateful to DG sir, @Media_SAI, the TOPS and @afiindia teams and everyone involved in making this happen pic.twitter.com/vbSSymdx1E

— Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) December 8, 2021

“Training in the last three weeks has been difficult for me. When I went on the track to train, I gave it my all. Yes, my fitness levels have reduced due to inaction for last four months. I had gained a lot of weight and now I am trying to shed it. I am feeling very positive to train again. Poora Khaich rakha hai badhiya se. I have a feeling that 2022 will also be good. I just need to ensure I am injury free and safe from COVID-19,” said Neeraj.

(with PTI inputs)