Turn star Angelina Melnikova has not received a visa for the World Cup in Rotterdam

Three Russian gymnasts have been denied visas for the World Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands, preventing them from competing in the event. Among those affected are Angelina Melnikova, Anna Kalmykova, and Viktoriya Listunova, each notable athletes in the sport. The decision has sparked controversy within Russia, with officials accusing Western nations of displaying anti-Russian bias. The denial came after reports circulated in Brussels about potential sanctions against Russian athletes due to Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. These discussions reportedly include measures such as restricting funding for sports organizations supportive of Russia’s return to international competitions. Melnikova, who previously competed under a neutral flag following her participation in local elections for President Vladimir Putin’s party, had already faced visa issues earlier this year during the European Championships in Croatia. At that time, she was initially barred from entering the country before being allowed entry after appeals. This latest denial has left her unable to compete at the World Championships. The International Gymnastics Federation, known since 2025 as "World Gymnastics," expressed regret over the impact on the Russian delegation's preparations and the uncertainty surrounding the championships. However, the federation did not object to the athletes' participation if they were competing under a neutral banner. The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that athletes from countries involved in the conflict could receive visas if they competed neutrally. It also noted that individual cases might be handled differently, though specific reasons for the visa denials remain unclear. The International Olympic Committee declined responsibility for the issue, emphasizing that it does not oversee the World Championships. While the event does serve as a qualifier for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the IOC indicated there are still other opportunities for athletes to qualify for the Games. Russian officials strongly oppose the visa restrictions, viewing them as evidence of anti-Russian sentiment. The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Sacharova, criticized the actions as neo-Nazi behavior targeting individuals solely based on their nationality. She accused the European Union of engaging in a witch hunt against citizens.