India's golden boy of athletics, Neeraj Chopra, has embarked on a significant entrepreneurial journey. The Olympic and World Champion javelin thrower has officially launched his own athlete management firm, Vel Sports Management, while simultaneously concluding his long-standing partnership with JSW Sports.
A New Chapter Begins for the Golden Arm
In a move that signals a major shift in his career trajectory, Neeraj Chopra announced the commencement of this "new chapter." The formal association with JSW Sports, which began in 2016 and spanned nearly a decade, has now come to an end. Both parties confirmed the separation was amicable, rooted in mutual respect and pride for their shared achievements.
Chopra, who rose to national fame by winning India's first-ever Olympic gold in track and field at the Tokyo 2020 Games, expressed gratitude for his time with JSW. "Over the last decade, our journey together has been one of growth, belief, and achievement," he stated. "JSW Sports has played a defining role in my career, and I'll always remain grateful for their support and vision."
Echoing the sentiment, JSW Sports CEO Divyanshu Singh highlighted the pride felt by the organization. "Working with Neeraj has been an incredible experience. His success story reflects our shared philosophy of excellence and purpose," Singh remarked, wishing the athlete continued success in his future pursuits.
Inside Vel Sports: Financials and Structure
According to official filings, Vel Sports Management is registered as a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) based in Chopra's home region of Panipat, Haryana. Interestingly, the company was incorporated in April 2023, but its public launch was announced only now.
The financial details reveal a robust start for the venture. For the period from 21 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, the firm reported a gross turnover exceeding ₹11.14 crore. Its profit after tax (PAT) stood at an impressive ₹5.65 crore for the same duration.
The documents list two designated partners: Neeraj Chopra himself, with a capital contribution of ₹9.50 lakh, and Surendra Kumar, who contributed ₹50,000. By March 2024, the total infusion from partners was ₹10 lakh, with reserves and surplus at ₹1.04 crore. The entity's assets are valued at over ₹5.72 crore, against liabilities of ₹2 lakh.
From Champion Athlete to Entrepreneur
This venture marks Neeraj Chopra's formal foray into business, leveraging his unparalleled experience as a top-tier athlete. At 27, he has already secured a historic Olympic gold (Tokyo 2020), a World Championship gold (2023), and a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, among other global accolades.
The launch of Vel Sports positions Chopra not just as a sporting icon but as a potential mentor and manager for the next generation of Indian athletes. By stepping into the management arena, he aims to extend his legacy beyond the throwing circle, shaping careers and fostering sporting talent in the country.
This strategic pivot underscores a growing trend among elite athletes who are building business empires around their personal brands and deep understanding of the sports ecosystem. The Indian sporting landscape watches with keen interest as its most celebrated contemporary athlete begins this new innings.
