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- Published: October 1, 2024 16:16
New Delhi: After a successful tenure with Klaus Bartonietz, India’s star Olympian Neeraj Chopra are set to part ways with the former following a successful tenure with the German. Klaus and Chopra’s partnership saw Chopra reach new heights with the German winning back-to-back Olympic medals as well as Diamond League and World Championships. Subsequently, the 75-year-old has decided to return home to Germany to spend more time with his family.
Klaus Bartonietz helped Neeraj in his maiden Olympic triumph in Tokyo 2020 post which he helped Chopra in the silver medal triumph in Paris 2024. Neeraj also the World Championship Gold in 2023 as well as an Asian Games gold medal back in 2022 Hangzhou.
Why did Klaus Bartonietz decide to leave?
Earlier, Klaus Bartonietz was hired by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) as a biomechanical expert. However, Klaus became the head coach once Neeraj parted his ways with the former coach Uwe Hohn.
Bartonietz’s departure was broken by the AFI Presiden Adille Sumariwalla. In a recent interview with the New Indian Express, Sumariwalla said that Klaus is ageing slowly and wanted to spend ‘more time’ with his family which led him to such a decision.
Sumariwalla further added-
He also would need some changes in his thinking, psychology and even training. I think in a way it might be a good thing for him. Together we are looking for a good coach. We are looking for someone with whom Neeraj would be comfortable and are talking to a lot of people. We will get him another good coach soon…
Who will succeed Bartonietz as the head coach of Neeraj Chopra?
So far, there has been no update as to who will be partnering with Neeeraj going ahead in the new season. While AFI is trying to engage Klaus in the junior programmes, Chopra’s pairing still remains in jeopardy.