Sport|OlympicsIOC wants no sport events in Indonesia after visa ban on Israeli athletesIndonesia says it barred Israeli gymnasts from the global event to maintain ‘public order and security’.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has advised global sports federations to refrain from organizing sporting events in Indonesia. This recommendation follows Indonesia’s decision to deny visas to Israeli gymnasts, preventing their participation in…
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has advised global sports federations to refrain from organizing sporting events in Indonesia. This recommendation follows Indonesia’s decision to deny visas to Israeli gymnasts, preventing their participation in the ongoing Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta.
On Wednesday, the IOC's executive board released a statement recommending that world sports bodies avoid holding events in Indonesia. The decision aligns with the IOC's policy to ensure that all athletes, regardless of nationality, can participate in sporting events.
Indonesia, which does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, has stated that the visa denial is consistent with its policy of not engaging with Israel until it recognizes Palestinian independence. This policy has significant implications for Indonesia's aspirations to host future international events. The IOC has stated that discussions regarding any potential Olympic Games bid by Indonesia are suspended until the country provides assurances of inclusivity for athletes of all nationalities.
Indonesia has previously indicated interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics. However, the recent IOC decision significantly diminishes its prospects of securing the Games.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has advised global sports federations to refrain from organizing sporting events in Indonesia.
Sports Minister Erick Thohir acknowledged the consequences of the decision, emphasizing Indonesia's commitment to maintaining public order and its constitutional obligations to uphold global peace. Thohir remarked that as long as Indonesia maintains its current stance regarding Israel, it cannot host Olympic or related events.
The IOC announced its intention to revise qualification principles to ensure all athletes can participate in Olympic qualification events. It has also requested a meeting with the Indonesian Olympic Committee and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) at the IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss the issue further. No specific date for this meeting has been announced.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently rejected appeals by the Israel Gymnastics Federation, which sought permission for Israeli athletes to compete in the Jakarta championship. CAS also denied requests to compel the FIG to move or cancel the event in response to the visa denial.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
