Thu Oct 23 08:02:35 UTC 2025: ## News Article: IOC Freezes Indonesia Out After Israeli Gymnasts Banned
Jakarta, Indonesia – The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has effectively blacklisted Indonesia as a potential host for future sporting events, including the Olympic Games, after the nation barred Israeli gymnasts from the ongoing Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta. The ban, which Indonesia claims was necessary to “maintain public order and security,” has triggered a strong response from the IOC, citing discrimination.
The IOC’s executive board announced on Wednesday that it has recommended global sports federations cease hosting events in Indonesia until guarantees are provided that all athletes, regardless of nationality, will be permitted to compete. This also puts a halt to any discussions about Indonesia’s potential bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics.
Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, denied visas to the Israeli gymnasts, citing its policy of cutting ties with Israel until it recognizes the independence of Palestine. This action was condemned by the IOC, who reiterated their commitment to non-discrimination in sports.
Indonesian Sports Minister Erick Thohir acknowledged the consequences of the decision, stating that the country “understands that this decision carries consequences.” He defended the ban, stating it aligned with Indonesia’s constitutional principles of maintaining security, public order, and upholding world order. “As long as Indonesia cannot accept the presence of Israel, the IOC has decided that Indonesia cannot host world championships, Olympic events, Youth Olympic Games, and other activities under the Olympic umbrella,” Thohir said.
The IOC announced it will modify its qualification principles to ensure guaranteed access for all athletes, regardless of nationality, for any Olympic Games qualifying event. They have also summoned representatives from the Indonesian Olympic Committee and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to a meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss the matter.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) previously rejected appeals by the Israel Gymnastics Federation to compete in the championship, further complicating the situation. The FIG refrained from relocating the event, despite its statutes allowing it to do so in cases of visa refusals.
The IOC’s actions highlight the delicate balance between sporting neutrality and geopolitical realities, leaving Indonesia’s future in international sporting events uncertain.
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