Epke Zonderland tournament director World Gymnastics Championships 2026

Epke Zonderland has been appointed Tournament Director of the World Gymnastics Championships 2026, taking place from 17 to 25 October in Rotterdam Ahoy. In this role, Zonderland represents the event to fans, media, and partners, and brings valuable expertise to the organisation as a former elite gymnast.

Zonderland is considered an icon in international gymnastics. He became a three-time European and World Champion on the horizontal bar and made history by winning Olympic gold in London in 2012. In 2021, already a qualified doctor, he competed in his fourth Olympic Games before retiring from competitive gymnastics.

Since then, Zonderland has remained closely involved in the sport, serving as a motivational figure, speaker, and advocate for elite gymnastics. His knowledge, experience, and dedication make him the ideal figure to help shape and lead the 2026 World Championships as Tournament Director.

Zonderland on his appointment: “It’s an absolute honour to be involved as Tournament Director of the 2026 World Gymnastics Championships in our own country. In Rotterdam Ahoy, we’re going to deliver a spectacular event that will inspire the gymnastics world. I sincerely hope our Dutch gymnasts seize this opportunity to take their careers to the next level—and that some of our veterans can finish their careers here on a high note, hopefully crowned with a medal!”

The World Championships are organised by the Royal Dutch Gymnastics Federation (KNGU) and TIG Sports & Events.