The Sports Ministry has committed to providing world champion javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga with a new set of international-standard javelins after his equipment was damaged during transit from Hungary. The government is also exploring compensation from the airline.
Sri Lanka's Sports Ministry announced plans to supply world-ranked javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga with replacement equipment following damage to his javelins during his return flight from Budapest. Tharanga arrived in Sri Lanka on September 15 after securing victories at both the World Athletics Ultimate Championship and the Diamond League Final, marking significant achievements in Sri Lankan athletics history.
All five of Tharanga's javelins sustained damage during transit, though the precise cause remains undetermined. According to Tharanga's own account reported by News 1st, the damage appeared to result from an aircraft-related oversight. The athlete, who holds this year's best men's javelin performance at 92.62 metres from the Rome Diamond League event, expressed both pride in his accomplishments and disappointment over the equipment loss.
Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage directed officials to expedite the purchase of replacement javelins at government expense to prevent disruption to Tharanga's training schedule. The ministry signalled broader commitment to supporting the athlete's preparations for upcoming competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Additionally, according to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports statement, the government is considering seeking compensation from the airline involved and exploring potential legal and diplomatic measures regarding the damage.