IOC Sanctions Indonesia Over Ban on Israeli Gymnastics Team

In response to Indonesia’s denial of visas to the Israeli Gymnastics Team for the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, the Executive Board (EB) of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided to impose certain measures against the host nation. The IOC emphasised that, as per the Olympic Charter, all eligible athletes, teams, and officials must be permitted to participate in international sporting events without discrimination by the host country. The championships were held from 19 to 25 October, and the Israeli team was unable to participate due to visa refusal.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, the IOC announced several measures. These include suspending all discussions with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Indonesia regarding hosting future Olympic Games, events, or conferences, and advising all International Federations to refrain from organising international sports events or meetings in Indonesia until the government guarantees equal access for all participants.

Additionally, the IOC invited representatives of Indonesia’s NOC and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to its headquarters in Lausanne to discuss the situation. Prior to the event, the IOC issued a statement expressing concern and reaffirming its position on nondiscrimination in sport.

Meanwhile, the Israel Gymnastics Federation (IGF) filed two appeals before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking provisional measures. The first appeal challenged the FIG’s statement that merely “took note” of Indonesia’s decision not to issue visas to the Israeli delegation, requesting its annulment. The second sought an order directing the FIG to ensure Israeli participation in the championships—or, in the alternative, to relocate or cancel the event—arguing that failure to do so would constitute a denial of justice. The FIG, however, maintained that it had no authority to issue entry visas. Both appeals were dismissed by CAS.