IOC Bars Indonesia from Hosting Gymnastics World Championships After Ban on Israeli Athletes, Erick Thohir Cites 1945 Constitution
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has barred Indonesia from hosting the 2025 Gymnastics World Championships after the government refused to issue visas for six Israeli athletes. Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said the decision was consistent with Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution, emphasizing national security, public order, and state interests.
The IOC said Indonesia’s move violated Olympic principles of non-discrimination and political neutrality. In response, the committee suspended communication with the Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) and recommended that Indonesia be excluded from hosting any international sports events under its jurisdiction for the time being, including the Gymnastics World Championships.
Erick stated that the government’s decision was made after weighing the nation’s constitutional values and legal obligations. “At the Ministry of Youth and Sports, we uphold the principle of maintaining security, public order, and public interest in every international event held in our country,” Erick said in an official statement.
He added that the stance aligned with Indonesia’s constitutional mandate. “This step is in accordance with existing laws and the 1945 Constitution, which calls for the protection of national security and public order, and the duty of the Indonesian government to uphold world peace,” Erick explained.
The incident mirrors the controversy surrounding the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, when Indonesia lost its hosting rights after refusing to allow Israel’s participation. FIFA later transferred the event to Argentina, while granting Indonesia the right to host the 2023 U-17 World Cup instead.
In its ruling, the IOC reiterated that Indonesia cannot host any Olympic-sanctioned championships, including the Olympic Games, Youth Olympic Games, or other world-level events, until it permits Israeli participation.
Despite the sanctions, Erick reaffirmed Indonesia’s long-term commitment to sports development. “The government continues to prepare a blueprint for national sports advancement, including strengthening 17 key sports disciplines and building national training centers,” he said.
“Indonesia will remain active in sports across Southeast Asia, Asia, and the world, ensuring that our athletes continue to represent the strength and pride of the nation on the global stage,” Erick concluded.