Angelina Melnikova Denied Visa for World Gymnastics Championships

Angelina Melnikova and two compatriots have been denied visas to enter the Netherlands for the upcoming world championships, the Russian gymnastics federation announced.

Visa Denials Disrupt Russian World Championship Roster

The Russian gymnastics federation confirmed on Tuesday, October 13, that three of its athletes failed to secure the necessary travel documentation to attend the competition in the Netherlands. Among the sidelined competitors is Melnikova, who captured three medals at the Tokyo Games in 2021 and holds the current world title in the sport.

Dutch Authorities Cite National Security and Public Order

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Sports told Agence France-Presse that the position of the Netherlands is to authorize Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in sporting events strictly under a neutral banner. However, the spokesperson emphasized that it is possible that, in certain individual cases, a visa may not be issued. According to an official statement from the Dutch authorities, documents can be denied if the applicant is considered a threat to public order, internal security, or the international relations of any member state. Officials stressed that athletic performance plays no role whatsoever in these evaluations.

Olympic Qualification Stakes and Legal Appeal

The Russian gymnastics federation has lodged an appeal with the International Olympic Committee following the visa refusals. The upcoming world championships serve as one of the selection stages for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, raising the stakes for athletes. Responding to the decision in a video statement, the recent European champion called the outcome an inhumane attitude.