Doha set to host 17th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup at Aspire Dome from tomorrow
DOHA: The Qatari capital is ready to take center stage in the world of gymnastics as the 17th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup (Taishan) gets underway at the iconic Aspire Dome from April 16 to 19.
This highly anticipated edition will bring together some of the globe’s most decorated gymnasts for four days of elite-level competition.
A total of 73 athletes — 46 men and 27 women — representing countries from around the world will compete under the watchful eyes of 35 international judges, ensuring the highest standards of officiating.
The event opens with qualification rounds on April 16 and 17. Male gymnasts will compete across six apparatuses in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG), while their female counterparts will showcase their skills in four Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) disciplines. Finals will take place on April 18 and 19.
As the Middle East’s flagship gymnastics event, the World Cup in Doha continues to attract top-tier talent. This year’s lineup includes Olympic medalists and World Cup regulars such as Uzbekistan’s legendary Oksana Chusovitina, Armenia’s Artur Davtyan, Kazakhstan’s Nariman Kurbanov, Tang Chia-Hung of Chinese Taipei, and China’s You Hao — all specialists in their respective events.
Returning to the site of her breakthrough senior international victory in 2023, Romania’s Sabrina Maneca-Voinea will aim to make her mark once again in her strongest events — the Balance Beam and Floor Exercise.
Armenia’s rising star Hamlet Manukyan will also be one to watch. The 17-year-old Junior World Champion is coming off a sensational gold medal win on the Pommel Horse at last week’s World Cup in Osijek, Croatia. Doha presents yet another opportunity for him to shine on the world stage.
Adding further intrigue are Swiss brothers Matteo and Luca Giubellini, making their first World Cup appearance since the Paris 2024 Olympics. Matteo, who finished 10th in the All-Around in Paris, looks to carry that momentum forward alongside his older brother.
The event schedule includes:
- April 16: Qualifications for Men’s Floor Exercise, Pommel Horse, Still Rings; and Women’s Vault and Uneven Bars
- April 17: Qualifications for Men’s Vault, Parallel Bars, Horizontal Bar; and Women’s Balance Beam and Floor Exercise
- April 18–19: Apparatus Finals
Fans can expect thrilling performances, as some of the world’s best athletes compete for podium finishes and crucial ranking points. The finals will be broadcast live exclusively on Al Kass TV, with extended international coverage also in place to reach a global audience.
Organized by the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) in collaboration with the Qatar Olympic Committee, the event underscores Doha’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class sporting events.
With its high-caliber participants and electrifying atmosphere, the 17th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup promises an unforgettable experience for gymnastics fans and families alike.
(By Mohammad Amin)
