Netherlands refuses visas to three Russian gymnasts ahead of World Championships
The Dutch government denied entry visas to three Russian female gymnasts, including world champion Angelina Melnikova, preventing their participation in the upcoming World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Rotterdam.
The Netherlands has rejected visa applications for three Russian gymnasts, among them reigning all-around world champion Angelina Melnikova. The RGF described the refusal as discrimination and a violation of fair competition, alleging that Dutch authorities aim to keep Russia's top athletes out of the event. The athletes - Melnikova, Viktoria Listunova and Anna Kalmykova - will miss the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships set for 17-25 October in Rotterdam.
Russia intends to challenge the decision before the World Gymnastics governing body and the International Olympic Committee. This follows a prior visa denial for Melnikova at the European Championships in Croatia, which was later overturned on appeal. The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Russian participation in international sport.
Why it matters
Visa refusals bar top athletes from a major global competition, raising questions about fairness and political influence in sport.
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