Mark your calendars for an exciting event that promises to put Portimão on the global gymnastics map. From 2 to 4 May, the Portimão Arena will host the XXXII International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament, followed closely by the prestigious 2025 World Cup from 9 to 11 May. This remarkable series of events is a collaboration between the Portuguese Gymnastics Federation and the Portimão Municipal Council.
As the world turns its gaze to the Algarve, this high-profile competition will feature top gymnasts from around the globe. With the recent Olympic Games behind us, many countries are eager to prepare their elite teams for the upcoming European Championships. What better way to kick off the competitive season than in the stunning surroundings of the Algarve?
This year, we will witness the largest participation numbers since 2017, with 35 federations represented at the World Cup. Gymnasts from five continents will grace our arena, showcasing the event’s significance within the global rhythmic gymnastics circuit. “These numbers demonstrate the importance of this event for the world circuit and reinforce the work that Portugal has done to develop the discipline,” says Andreia Sanches, the competition’s Executive Director.
Fans can look forward to an exhilarating individual competition featuring 55 gymnasts from 32 countries, including Angola, Armenia, Belgium, Brazil, Spain, and the USA. Notable athletes include Alina Harnasko, a bronze medallist from the Tokyo Olympics, and Anastasiia Salos, a recent medalist at the Baku World Cup. Additionally, the tournament will highlight Bárbara Domingues, who made history in Paris as the first Brazilian gymnast to reach an individual All-Around final at the Olympic Games.
The competition promises a mix of seasoned talents and rising stars, such as Israel’s Alona Tal Franco, the 2023 Junior World Champion, and the USA’s Rin Keys, a triple gold medallist at last year’s Portimão International Tournament.
Portugal will be proudly represented by accomplished gymnasts Rita Araújo, known for her strong performance at the Sofia World Cup, and Joana Pinheiro, who will make her international debut this year. Laura Sales, the National Technical Director, anticipates a high-calibre competition, a standard we’ve come to expect from Portimão.
In addition, audiences can look forward to teams from Israel, France, Brazil, and Spain, all of which participated in the Paris Olympic Games, along with competitors from Germany, Azerbaijan, Canada, and more.
Join us in celebrating this vibrant display of athleticism and artistry at the Portimão Arena—a true testament to the Algarve’s commitment to promoting sports and community spirit. Let’s support our gymnasts and revel in the excitement of world-class rhythmic gymnastics!