IOC calls for no sports events in Indonesia following ban of Israeli athletes at gymnastics tournament

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has called for future sports events to not be held in Indonesia following the country's visa cancellation of the Israeli gymnastic team.

In a statement on Oct. 22, the IOC said that would advise international sports federations to refrain from holding tournaments or meetings in Indonesia until the government ensures that all participants will be granted entry.

Indonesia has cancelled the Israeli gymnastic team's visa, preventing them from participating in the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2025 held in Jakarta, in support of the Palestinian cause.

According to Jakarta Globe, Indonesia Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said on Oct. 23 that the decision to ban the team stems from the country's 1945 Constitution, which mandates that Indonesia "help maintain world order".

Decision has violated core Olympic principles of non-discrimination: IOC

The IOC Executive Board (EB) said that Indonesia's action has violated "core Olympic principles of non-discrimination and political neutrality".

"All eligible athletes, teams and sports officials must be able to participate in international sports competitions and events without any form of discrimination from the host country," IOC said.

The committee said it would suspend dialogue with Indonesia regarding future Olympic events, recommend that international federations avoid hosting competitions in the country, and adjust Olympic qualification rules to ensure host nations guarantee access for all athletes.

It also emphasised the importance of "free and unfettered access" for all participants, warning that any restrictions based on nationality undermine the autonomy of sport and the foundational values of the Olympic Movement.

Indonesia defends stance on ban, says IOC statement "does not worry" them

Responding to IOC's statement, Erick said that the ministry, as representatives of the Indonesian government, uphold the principle of maintaining security, public order, and public interest in every international event.

He added that the decision is based on the Indonesian 1945 Constitution which requires the nation to "help maintain world order".

"The IOC's statement does not worry us," Erick said.

He added that Indonesia will continue to "play an active role" in sports in the Southeast Asia, Asia, and globally so that its athletes can "represent the nation's strength and spirit to the world".

The Indonesian Olympic Committee has been invited to the IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss the matter and work toward a resolution.

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