The 85th Congress of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) recently took place in Doha, Qatar, with over 500 officials from 157 Member Federations in attendance. Hosted by the Qatar Olympic Committee and the Qatar Gymnastics Federation, the event featured discussions on a comprehensive four-year financial plan aimed at supporting FIG’s strategic objectives. Key initiatives included hosting World Championships, expanding the “Gymnastics for All” movement, improving global competition management, and enhancing educational opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials.
The Congress featured reports from the Independent Ethics Foundation for Gymnastics and the FIG Solidarity Foundation, emphasizing commitments to athlete protection and governance standards. Updates were also provided by the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF), with discussions on proposed amendments to FIG statutes. One significant outcome was the official recognition of “paragymnastics,” leading to new regulations for dedicated competitions and a rebranding initiative that will introduce a new FIG logo.
At the FIG Awards Ceremony, Honorary FIG Vice Presidents and distinguished members were honored, with some receiving silver and bronze distinctions for their service. QGF executives were recognized for their contributions to organizing the Congress, demonstrating Qatar’s commitment to hosting international sports events. First Vice President Ali Al Hitmi praised the Congress for its regulatory progress, budget approvals, and initiatives aimed at advancing gymnastics globally. He also expressed gratitude to the QOC and its President for their support.
Noha Abu Shabana, Chair of FIG’s Rhythmic Gymnastics Technical Committee, commended Qatar for successfully organizing the Congress, which addressed crucial technical and strategic priorities. Thailand was chosen to host the next FIG Congress in 2026, with Jakarta, Indonesia, selected as the venue for the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. The Congress ended with a renewed commitment to FIG’s mission, setting the stage for the continued growth of gymnastics on a global scale.
In conclusion, the 85th FIG Congress in Doha was a success, with key decisions made to support the growth and development of gymnastics worldwide. The event highlighted the importance of athlete protection, governance standards, and the expansion of opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials. The recognition of “paragymnastics” and the introduction of a new FIG logo signify the federation’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the sport. Qatar’s role as a host demonstrated its capability in organizing international sports events, setting a high standard for future gatherings and cementing its position as a hub for gymnastics in the Arab region.
