The International Olympic Committee halts Indonesia’s bid to host global sporting events after Jakarta denied visas to Israeli gymnasts.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has barred Indonesia from hosting future Olympic Games and other international sporting events after the government refused visas to Israeli athletes for the 2025 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta. The decision effectively ends Indonesia’s 2036 Olympic bid, citing violations of the Olympic Charter’s principle of non-discrimination.
IOC Freezes Indonesia’s Olympic Hosting Rights
In an official statement on October 23, the IOC announced that it would terminate all dialogue with Indonesia’s National Olympic Committee (KOI) concerning the hosting of any Olympic or Youth Olympic Games. The move comes after Indonesia denied entry to six Israeli gymnasts scheduled to compete in the Jakarta championship, citing the nation’s diplomatic stance and public sentiment regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
“The IOC Executive Board has decided to end all forms of dialogue with the Indonesian Olympic Committee until guarantees are provided that all participants — regardless of nationality — will have full access to competitions held in Indonesia,” the statement read.
Israeli Media: ‘Indonesia’s Olympic Dream Frozen’
Israeli outlet The Jerusalem Post described the ruling as a severe blow to Indonesia’s long-standing ambition to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, calling it a clear message from Lausanne — “As long as a host discriminates against athletes on political or national grounds, that country has no place in the Olympic Movement.”
The IOC also urged all international sports federations to avoid organizing events or meetings in Indonesia until it provides written assurance of fair access for all athletes, including those from Israel.
Background: Visa Refusal Sparks Global Reaction
Indonesia’s refusal to issue visas to the Israeli gymnastics team — including Olympic gold medalist Artem Dolgopyat — triggered international criticism. The Israel Gymnastics Federation (IGF) condemned the move as a “dangerous precedent” and filed a complaint with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to either guarantee participation or relocate the event. The appeal was later dismissed, resulting in the Israeli athletes’ exclusion from the championship.
Erick Thohir: Indonesia Upholds National Interests
Responding to the IOC’s decision, Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir stated that Indonesia remains committed to upholding public safety, order, and national interest in hosting international events. He clarified that the government’s actions were based on existing laws and Indonesia’s diplomatic position, which does not recognize the State of Israel.
“Kemenpora stands by the principle of safeguarding security, public order, and the interests of our people in every international event we host,” Erick said, while reaffirming Indonesia’s continued investment in developing 17 key sports and building national training centers.
A Blow to Indonesia’s Global Sports Ambitions
The IOC’s suspension is a major setback for Indonesia’s sports diplomacy. The country had been actively promoting itself as a host for the 2036 Olympic Games, leveraging its successful organization of the 2018 Asian Games. However, without compliance to Olympic principles, Indonesia now faces exclusion from major international tournaments until it revises its stance.
Sports and Diplomacy Collide
The IOC’s decision underscores the tension between national policy and global sports governance. While Indonesia defends its diplomatic principles, the international community views inclusivity as non-negotiable in the Olympic spirit. The episode not only freezes Indonesia’s Olympic aspirations but also serves as a cautionary tale for nations balancing political positions with global sporting responsibilities.
Sources: CNA (2025) , Detikcom (2025)
Keywords: IOC, Indonesia Ban, Israel Gymnasts, Olympic Bid, Non-Discrimination Principle, 2036 Olympics
