DOHA (Qatar): The Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) has come a long way since it was formed in 2000.

Two decades of its existence has helped QGF, organisers of FIG Artistic World Cup, grow from strength to strength to develop the sport in the country.

The FIG event has, in fact, boosted the sport’s popularity to a great extent. The glamorous competition, which is scheduled in June this year, will hope to re-affirm Qatar’s status as one of the world’s top sports destinations.

“It’s a matter of pride that we have earned the trust of the FIG to host an important event like this,” said QGF President Ali Ahmed Al Hitmi. “Qatar has the necessary infrastructure and personnel to host any world-class event.”

A dozen edition has already been hosted by Doha, with the Covid-19 pandemic halting the event last year.    

Qatar is a pioneer in organising several gymnastics disciplines in the region including the 2018 FIG Artistic World Championships.

The late Bruno Grandi, former FIG president, had once said that “QGF has developed very fast since it was affiliated to the world body in 2002”. 

The past FIG tournaments have helped QGF in a big way to gain experience and respect from all stakeholders including top-class gymnasts. 

“Whenever I visited Doha, it looks new. It’s a fabulous city. The venue is just too good,” Armenia’s Artur Tovmasyan had told dohagym last year. 

A large number of participants is expected to compete when the FIG Artistic World Cup resumes in June. 

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