New Delhi is poised to once again become a focal point for Para athletics as it hosts the second Grand Prix of the 2026 season. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, a venue still buzzing from its successful hosting of the World Para Athletics Championships last October, will see some of the world’s top athletes compete on Indian soil. The event, which begins this Wednesday, offers a crucial opportunity for athletes to fine-tune their preparations ahead of major competitions, including the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and beyond.
The JLN Stadium underwent significant upgrades ahead of the World Championships, including the installation of a new MONDO track, designed to enhance performance and aid visually challenged athletes. A total of 257 athletes from eight National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) are participating in this year’s Grand Prix.
India enters the competition with high hopes, building on its success at the season-opening Grand Prix in Dubai. The host nation will field a strong team of 219 athletes (165 male and 54 female). Leading the charge will be two-time Paralympic champion Sumit Antil in the men’s javelin F64, and Paris 2024 gold medallist Praveen Kumar in the men’s high jump T64.
New Delhi is calling! The second Grand Prix of the year kicks off this Wednesday on a track we know well 👀The schedule and broadcast details for the Grand Prix will be shared very soon.#ParaAthletics
— Para Athletics (@ParaAthletics) March 9, 2026
Kumar will compete in three events – the men’s 100m, men’s long jump, and high jump T44. Also expected to shine are Preeti Pal, a two-time Paris 2024 medallist in the women’s 100m and 200m T35, and established stars Mariyappan Thangavelu (men’s high jump T42) and Ajeet Singh (men’s javelin throw F46), a Paris 2024 silver medallist.
International Presence and Returning Champions
While the international field is smaller than in Dubai, the New Delhi Grand Prix will welcome athletes who experienced success at last year’s World Para Athletics Championships held at the same venue. Two-time world champion David Dzhatiev will compete in the men’s 100m and 200m T35 events, while two-time Paralympic gold medallist Elena Pautova will participate in the women’s 1500m T13. Athletes from Nepal, including Himal Aryal, who made history at the 2025 World Championships in New Delhi, are also returning to gain valuable competitive experience.
Following the Action
Fans can follow all the action from the New Delhi 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix on World Para Athletics social media channels. The complete schedule and results are available here.
As the New Delhi Grand Prix unfolds, it will serve as a key stepping stone for athletes aiming for success at upcoming international competitions. The event not only showcases the incredible talent within the Para athletics community but also reinforces India’s growing commitment to inclusive sports. Follow along for updates and results as these athletes strive for glory on home ground.
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