Olympic Eligibility Requirements For Gymnastics

Gymnastics is a sport practiced worldwide where some of the best athletes are still minors. As a result, these minors have been given the opportunity to participate in world competitions such as the Olympic Games. To control the eligibility of these athletes, the Federation of International Gymnastics enforces various rules and regulations.

Trials

The first step to becoming eligible for the Olympics is to participate in your country's trials. The U.S., for example, uses a qualification and selection process that includes the Olympic Team Trials and Final Selection Camp. During the trials, each gymnast has a specific evaluation to determine eligibility for the upcoming Olympics.

Citizenship

All athletes must compete for the country of their citizenship. This prevents a country from recruiting the best gymnasts from around the world and forces it to use its own best athletes. Any citizen who meets all other eligibility requirements can compete in the Olympics. Athletes with dual citizenship can choose to compete for either country.

Minimum Age

The Federation of International Gymnastics enforces a minimum age requirement for all Olympic gymnasts. As of the 2012 Olympics, all gymnasts must be at least age 16, or turning 16 within the same calendar year.

Verification

After making the Olympic gymnastics team, all athletes must show proof of citizenship to be eligible for the Games. You can use a passport, birth certificate or another form of identification. The approved forms of identification are subject to change by the Olympic Committee or Federation of International Gymnastics.