Russian Gymnasts Denied Visas for World Championships in Rotterdam
The Dutch Embassy in Moscow has rejected visa applications for prominent Russian gymnasts, including world champion Angelina Melnikova.
Top-tier Russian athletes participating in the 2026 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam failed to obtain visas from the Dutch diplomatic mission and will miss the championship.
Visa Rejection Decision and Championship
Current world individual all-around champion Angelina Melnikova, Tokyo Olympic team champion Victoriia Listunova, and European runner-up Anna Kalmykova will not be able to participate in the championship held from October 17-25.
The Russian Gymnastics Federation announced that the visa applications of three key athletes were rejected, as notified to the visa center by the Dutch Embassy in Moscow.
Reasons and Federation's Response
Official notifications stated that one or more Schengen Area member states considered these athletes a threat in terms of international relations.
Stating that these steps are a deliberate attempt to eliminate top-tier gymnasts, the Russian Gymnastics Federation announced it will take the matter to international authorities.
Status of the National Team
While the women's team remains in uncertainty following this visa crisis, it was reported that five other athletes were granted visas and Russia can compete with a full squad in the men's category.