Israel's Ilia Liubimov competes at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships. GETTY IMAGES

The Executive Committee of the European Gymnastics decided on Monday to cancel the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Israel, scheduled for 2025 at Expo Tel Aviv.

The governing body of gymnastics in Europe announced the decision "due to the current situation in Israel" and said it was reopening the bidding process for a host. Member federations have one month to submit their bids.

"We acknowledge the efforts done by the Israeli Gymnastics Federation, which has been an excellent host of several European Championships over the past eight years. The Executive Committee welcomes a bid for future editions," added European Gymnastics in a brief statement.

It comes on top of another decision made on the same day, the cancellation of the Artistic Gymnastics Challenge Cup, which was due to be held at the Jerusalem Arena. In response to the decision, the Israeli Gymnastics Federation said in a statement.



"This is the third cancellation notice we have been forced to issue for prestigious international events scheduled to take place in Israel. Starting with the World Acrobatic Gymnastics Championships, the Artistic Gymnastics Challenge Cup, and now the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships," it said.

"We understand the considerations that led to this decision, but our hearts are heavy. We have worked hard to bring Israel to the forefront of the diplomatic stage and to bring major international events to Israel, and the feeling is heavy. Nevertheless, we will not give up and will continue to work to bring competitions to Israel, hoping that the security situation will allow it," the note added.