The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) is expected to appoint a new chief coach following the conclusion of the 2026 Asian Games, marking the end of a significant chapter in Indian athletics.
According to multiple sources, current chief coach Radhakrishnan Nair is expected to retire after the continental event. The 68-year-old has served as India’s chief athletics coach since 2020, overseeing the national team’s preparations and performances through several major international competitions during his tenure.
The proposed leadership change comes as Indian athletics continues to enjoy one of its most successful periods, with increasing depth across track and field events and a growing number of athletes achieving international standards. The appointment of a new chief coach will play an important role in guiding the next phase of the country’s high-performance programme.
Sources further indicate that the leading contender to succeed Nair is a throws coach who has worked closely with several of India’s elite throwers and has been part of the national coaching setup. His experience in developing top-level athletes has reportedly made him the frontrunner for the position.
However, no final decision has been taken, and the appointment is expected to be made only after the conclusion of the Asian Games. The AFI is understood to be following its internal process before officially announcing the next chief coach.
Radhakrishnan Nair’s tenure has coincided with a period of notable progress for Indian athletics, during which the national team has produced several strong performances at continental and global competitions. His expected retirement after the Asian Games would bring to a close six years in the role.
As preparations continue for the 2026 Asian Games, the immediate focus remains on the performance of the Indian contingent. Once the continental championships conclude, attention is expected to shift towards the transition in the national coaching structure, with the appointment of a new chief coach likely to shape the direction of Indian athletics in the years ahead.