Rotterdam gymnastics worlds retain first Olympic qualifying status despite visa dispute

The World Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam will remain the first qualifying event for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, despite visa problems affecting Russian gymnasts. The governing body considered removing the event’s qualifying status but decided against it after a vote, secretary-general Nicolas Buompane said at a press conference. [1]

Dutch authorities refused visas this week to three Russians, including reigning all-around world champion Angelina Melnikova. Several others are still waiting for approval, according to Nieuws.nl’s report. [1]

The top three teams in the men’s and women’s finals will each earn a team place at the Games. Buompane said a large majority of the executive board supported keeping the qualification system unchanged, but declined to disclose the vote count because the meeting was closed. He said withdrawing the status would affect all countries competing for Olympic places. [1]