Russian expert Aleksandrovich to oversee India's elite javelin programme ahead of 2025 Worlds

Renowned Russian javelin thrower Sergey Makarov Aleksandrovich appointed as India's chief national coach for upcoming World Athletics Championships.

India's top javelin throwers, including Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and national record holder Annu Rani, will train with Russian legend Sergey Makarov Aleksandrovich, who in his new role as India's javelin coach will oversee the preparations for this year's World Athletics Championships.

The 51-year-old Makarov, a decorated former athlete with bronze medals at the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Olympics, was appointed recently with an eye on the next Olympic cycle, chief national coach Radhakrishnan Nair confirmed.

"The Russian javelin throw expert arrived earlier this week and will be based at Patiala's National Institute of Sports in Punjab," Nair was quoted as saying in a press release.

"Aleksandrovich's vast experience as an athlete and coach will surely give fillip to development of javelin throw in the country."

The Athletics Federation of India had recommended Aleksandrovich’s name to the Sports Ministry and his appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Indian athletics.

Following Neeraj's silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, which added to his historic gold from Tokyo Olympics, Indian javelin throwers have gained prominence on the global stage.

At the 2023 World Athletics Championships, India had three athletes in the top-six, with Neeraj clinching the gold medal after securing silver at Eugene 2022.