Turkish Airlines Promises Action and Compensation After Damage to World Champion’s Javelins

by Zulfick Farzan 16-09-2026 | 1:21 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); After discussions between Sri Lankan aviation authorities and representatives of Turkish Airlines, steps are now being taken to assess and compensate for the damage caused to the sporting equipment of world champion Rumesh Tharanga, whose championship-winning javelins were damaged during his return to Sri Lanka.

The development follows concerns raised over the damage sustained by the equipment of the Sri Lankan athlete, who brought pride to the nation by winning the gold medal in the javelin throw event at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship.

According to the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation, a special discussion was held yesterday (15) at the premises of the Civil Aviation Authority under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku. The meeting was also attended by Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Mangala, Director General of Civil Aviation Captain Daminda Rambukwella, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority Retired Colonel Ranjith Rajasinghe and representatives of Turkish Airlines.

During the discussions, representatives of Turkish Airlines expressed their regret over the damage caused to Ramesh Tharanga’s sporting equipment. They also agreed to carry out the necessary institutional investigations into the incident.

It was further decided that a proper assessment of the damage would be conducted and that the necessary steps would be taken to ensure prompt compensation for the loss suffered by the athlete.

The incident attracted global attention after it was revealed that several of the javelins damaged during transit were among the very implements used by Tharanga to establish himself as the world's number one javelin thrower and secure victories on the international stage. T

he athlete recently returned to Sri Lanka after a historic tour that saw him win multiple global titles and further strengthen the country's hopes of securing future success at the Asian Games, World Championships and the Olympic Games.