Indonesian foreign policy has effectively barred Israeli gymnasts from competing in the upcoming Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, a decision that has been affirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The championships are scheduled to begin Sunday in Jakarta, Indonesia. Indonesia’s government denied entry visas to six Israeli gymnasts, citing its long-standing foreign policy.
This exclusion impacts Artem Dolgopyat, the reigning 2023 world champion and Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion in his discipline.
Indonesia maintains that its veto aligns with its basic foreign policy principles. The nation does not have diplomatic relations or contacts with Israel. This stance will continue until Israel recognizes Palestine as a sovereign state.
The Israel Gymnastics Federation (IFG) appealed to the CAS multiple times. The CAS announced it has rejected two requests for “urgent measures” filed by Israel.
One of Israel’s appeals asked CAS to annul a decision by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). This FIG decision had conformed to Indonesia’s refusal of entry.
A separate appeal by the IFG sought for CAS to compel the FIG to ensure Israeli participation. This included suggestions to relocate the championships or cancel the event entirely.
The FIG has stated it lacks the authority to intervene in host countries’ visa granting processes. It declared that Indonesia’s refusal falls outside its jurisdiction.
The IFG argues that Indonesia’s denial constitutes “a denial of justice.” It claims this creates a situation of discrimination against a member federation.
The IFG also contends that FIG statutes require action from its executive committee. This applies in cases where athletes are refused visas. One appeal related to this specific point remains pending before CAS.