FIG Sets Up Special Assistance Fund for Athletes, National Federations Affected COVID-19

The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has announced a special fund of CHF 400,000 to provide financial assistance to athletes affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and national Gymnastics federations severely hit by the economic repercussions of the crisis.

FIG President Morinari Watanabe called this initiative “a valuable example of solidarity and friendship” in the sport when presenting it at the FIG Executive Committee videoconference meeting in May.

“This grave crisis plunges the world into a period of uncertainty. We cannot wait until the situation for some of us becomes catastrophic before we act and offer our support,” said President Watanabe. “We know how strong the spirit of solidarity is in Gymnastics. More than ever, it is by being united that we can overcome this crisis.”

This fund will be managed by the FIG Foundation for Solidarity. Since its inception in 2002, the Foundation has already supported hundreds of athletes and federations in need through scholarships, financial aid following an accident and equipment donations.

The procedures to apply for a grant and the eligibility criteria will be precisely defined very soon. The aim is that some help can be provided, without delay, to those who need it the most.

In addition, the FIG has decided to make another financial gesture towards all its member federations. They will be exempt from paying their annual membership fees for 2020 – this represents a total amount of CHF 120,000 for the FIG.