Gymnastics Judge Ban: Cyprus Olympics Scandal
The integrity of Olympic qualification faces a harsh spotlight as a gymnastics judge has been suspended for meddling in the process, a scandal rocking the Cyprus olympics. The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) found the judge interfered, allegedly to boost one athlete’s chances over another, and fined European Gymnastics hefty penalties. The focus of the investigation was the judging at the European Championships in Budapest.The gymnastics community is reeling from this decision. News Directory 3 reports exclusively on the scandal.Will more details emerge, and how will this affect the sport’s future? Discover what’s next in this developing story.
Gymnastics Judge Suspended Over Olympic Qualification Interference
Updated May 30, 2025
A gymnastics judge has been suspended by the international Gymnastics Federation (FIG) for allegedly interfering with the Olympic qualification process. The FIG also fined European Gymnastics 8,000 euros ($8,580) to cover investigative expenses.
The judge, Trikomiti, president of the superior jury at the European Championships in Budapest in May 2024, reportedly “unduly interfered” with judges’ scoring. This interference allegedly aimed to help 16-year-old gymnast, Tugolukova, qualify for the Olympics over poland’s Liliana Lewinska.
Trikomiti previously served as a judge at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Tugolukova’s participation in the Olympics will not be affected, as the FIG stated the ruling was not a “field of play” decision.
A representative for Trikomiti told Reuters that the proceedings were flawed and based on incomplete inquiry and concocted evidence.
“Mrs Trikomiti has been a judge for many years without any complaint, let alone sanction. She has worked hard to ensure that all competitions are judged fairly, independently and without bias and she fully intends to continue this work when her appeal is concluded,” the representative said.
Trikomiti’s daughter, Chrystalleni, competed for Cyprus at the 2012 London Olympics and secured two gold medals in rhythmic gymnastics at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
The Cyprus Gymnastics federation stated it would “thoroughly review” the ruling and take necessary actions in accordance with the law.
European Gymnastics said it plans to consult with lawyers before deciding whether to appeal the FIG’s decision regarding the Olympic qualification process.
What’s next
The FIG’s decision underscores the importance of fair judging in gymnastics and Olympic qualification. Further investigations and appeals may follow, potentially leading to reforms in judging protocols to prevent future interference.