James Hickey and Mimi Moloney compete at FIG World Challenge Cup in Paris
- Ireland’s artistic gymnastics team concluded its campaign at the FIG World Challenge Cup on September 27, 2026, at the Accor Arena in Paris, France, with James Hickey narrowly...
- James Hickey represented Ireland in the men’s events, competing on the pommel horse during the qualification round on September 26, 2026.
- In the women's competition, Mimi Moloney marked her first-ever World Cup experience by contesting the floor exercise.
Ireland’s artistic gymnastics team concluded its campaign at the FIG World Challenge Cup on September 27, 2026, at the Accor Arena in Paris, France, with James Hickey narrowly missing a spot in an apparatus final and Mimi Moloney completing her debut appearance on the international World Cup circuit.
James Hickey Ranks Ninth on Pommel Horse in Paris
James Hickey represented Ireland in the men’s events, competing on the pommel horse during the qualification round on September 26, 2026. He registered a score of 13.766, which placed him ninth overall in the standings. That result left him just one position away from securing a spot in the apparatus final, making him the first reserve for the final.
Mimi Moloney Debuts on Floor Exercise at World Cup
In the women’s competition, Mimi Moloney marked her first-ever World Cup experience by contesting the floor exercise. She finished her qualification routine on September 26, 2026, with a score of 12.200, landing in 12th place among the international field.
Preparation for the 2026 World Championships
Both gymnasts used the Paris World Challenge Cup as a key testing ground ahead of the upcoming World Championships. Sandra Stevenson, Head of Delegation, evaluated the performances following the conclusion of the event.
Congratulations to Mimi and James on strong performances at the Paris World Cup, providing valuable preparation ahead of the World Championships in a few weeks. James finished 9th Reserve 1 while Mimi achieved an impressive 12th place in her first-ever World Cup. Well done to both gymnasts, their clubs, coaches and support teams!
Sandra Stevenson, Head of Delegation
The World Championships are scheduled to run from October 17 to October 25, 2026, at the Rotterdam Ahoy in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where gymnasts from around the globe will compete following the qualification pathways established through continental championships and the 2026 World Cup series.