Gymnastics: Israeli Gymnasts Barred from World Championships in Jakarta
Indonesian authorities denied entry visas to Israeli gymnasts for the 2025 FIG World Artistic Gymnastics Championships held in Jakarta, citing threats to public order as the reason for the exclusion.
Official Statements on the Ban
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo, 11 days before the championships, declared:
“Regarding athletes from Israel, as the Governor of Jakarta, under current circumstances, I will not allow their presence. There’s no benefit in having Israeli gymnasts compete in Jakarta right now – it would only spark anger.”
Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir—also an International Olympic Committee member since 2019—affirmed the government’s position on 23 October via social media:
“We at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as representatives of the Indonesian Government, adhere to the principle of maintaining security, public order, and public interest in every international event organized.”
Political Context Behind the Ban
The Indonesian government framed the visa denial as a measure to preserve security and public order, avoiding political tensions by preventing Israeli athletes' participation. This decision highlights the intersection of sports and political considerations in international competitions.
Summary
This incident underscores ongoing challenges where geopolitical issues affect athletes' participation despite international sports governing bodies promoting neutrality and inclusion.
Author's summary: Indonesian authorities barred Israeli gymnasts from the 2025 World Championships in Jakarta, citing public order concerns amid political tensions, highlighting sports' vulnerability to geopolitical conflicts.