Gaza Conflict Fallout: Indonesia Excludes Israeli Gymnasts from World Championship

Israeli gymnasts, including reigning world floor champion Artem Dolgopyat, have been denied entry into Indonesia for the upcoming World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, effectively barring them from competing.

According to BBC Sport, the Indonesian government refused to issue visas to the Israeli delegation, citing Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza. The championships are scheduled to begin on Sunday and will run until October 25.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Tuesday dismissed an urgent appeal from the Israel Gymnastics Federation (IGF) seeking to overturn the decision. The IGF expressed “deep disappointment,” calling the ruling a “denial of justice” and a clear act of discrimination against its athletes.

The federation had asked CAS to compel the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to either ensure Israel’s participation or relocate or cancel the event entirely. However, CAS ruled that the FIG had “no authority” over visa issuance, noting that the matter rested solely with the Indonesian government.

In a statement, the IGF said:

> “It is inconceivable that a nation can bar another from competing in a world championship while the governing bodies remain passive. This decision undermines the very foundations of fair play and the spirit of sport.”

Dolgopyat, a two-time European champion and Olympic gold medalist, also voiced his frustration on Instagram, saying:

> “We are deeply disappointed and concerned that such decisions could harm the future of sport and fair competition. We will continue to seek justice, even though we can no longer compete this year.”

Dolgopyat and five other Israeli gymnasts — Eyal Indig, Ron Pyatov, Lihie Raz, Yali Shoshani, and Roni Shamay — were part of the appeal process to CAS.

The development comes amid renewed tensions in the Middle East, following a recent ceasefire deal that saw 20 Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian detainees released.