FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2026 kick off in Rotterdam: Iconic bridges unveiled to mark the start of ticket sale
Rotterdam – Exactly one year before the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2026 begin in Rotterdam, the official kick-off took place today with the unveiling of three iconic bridges, launching the event theme Building Bridges.
This theme symbolizes what the Championships are all about: building bridges between generations, cultures, and nations; between elite and grassroots sports; and between people from all backgrounds. Sport connects, inspires, and strengthens. With this moment, ticket sales for the event have officially opened.
Tournament Director Epke Zonderland attended the unveiling alongside Alderman Faouzi Achbar, Rotterdam Topsport Director Peter Blangé, KNGU Director Remco Boer, and TIG Sports & Events Director Noor van der Lugt. During the ceremony, the collaboration agreement was also signed, marking an important first milestone on the road to the World Championships.
Remco Boer, Director of the Royal Dutch Gymnastics Federation (KNGU), said: “The FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2026 are a milestone for Dutch gymnastics. It’s a wonderful stage to showcase the strength and vibrancy of our gymnastics community. These Championships connect elite and grassroots gymnastics and inspire a new generation of gymnasts across the Netherlands.”
Boer’s words perfectly reflect the shared ambition of the organizing partners: not only to deliver a world-class sporting event, but one that connects and inspires people.
Noor van der Lugt, Director of TIG Sports & Events, added: “Together with the KNGU, we are committed to creating an exceptional World Championships in 2026. With Building Bridges as our theme, we aim to connect generations, cultures, and disciplines – exactly what Rotterdam’s iconic bridges symbolize. At TIG Sports & Events, we are proud to contribute our expertise to this prestigious event, building on our long-standing experience in organizing large-scale international sports events. With passion, attention to detail, and a focus on connection, we aim to unite sport, city, and audience in a truly unique way.”
About the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2026
From 17 to 25 October 2026, Rotterdam Ahoy will transform into the global stage for the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships. With enthusiastic fans, lively fan zones, and the world’s best gymnasts in action, the event promises to be a spectacular experience.
As athletes chase their Olympic dreams and compete for national pride, Rotterdam will serve as the backdrop for connection – between generations, cultures, and disciplines. That same spirit of pride and unity is echoed by Alderman Faouzi Achbar, who said: “It is an honor to host the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships 2026 in our city. Since 2022, Rotterdam’s sports partners have been working closely together to strengthen gymnastics in the city. This collaboration has given the sport a real boost. We are proud to host these Championships – an event that brings people together and allows even more Rotterdammers to enjoy and discover this popular sport. We look forward to welcoming everyone.”
The excitement is shared throughout the sporting community. Peter Blangé, Director of Rotterdam Topsport, said: “We are delighted to host the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Rotterdam for the third time. We look forward to seeing many of our TeamNL gymnasts, who train here every day, now compete on the biggest world stage in Ahoy.”
The competition will begin with the men’s and women’s qualification rounds over three days, followed by the team finals on 20 October (men) and 21 October (women). The all-around finals will take place on 22 and 23 October, and the Championships will conclude with two days of apparatus finals on 24 and 25 October, when the world titles for each apparatus will be decided.
