Shinnosuke Oka, this year’s Olympic champion with Japan’s team and on the parallel bars, has already been here in the past, as has the Briton Max Whitlock, who also has two gold medals at home. For 20 years now, many of the world’s best young gymnasts have come together to compete at the Future Cup in the TipsArena in Linz. “It’s like a small World Cup,” says Upper Austria’s association boss Helmut Kranzlmüller, not without pride. It was he who came up with the idea for it in 2004, on the 22nd/23rd. The competition, which has grown over the years, will enter its 19th edition in November, with talent from 21 nations expected this time. But the local hopefuls don’t need to hide either.
A few kilometers further down at the winter harbor near the Danube, the gymnasts have had their base camp for several years. And when Vincent Lindpointner doesn’t have something to learn during his high school year, he spends his time here in the performance center under the supervision of national coach Michal Zoha. Much time. Nine times a week, up to 28 hours, to be exact, as the 18-year-old from Leonding explains. And he approaches it every day with great ambition. “My big goal is the Olympics in 2028 or 2032 at the latest,” he says. A thoroughly ambitious and difficult undertaking in an absolutely world sport in which there are many contenders for only a few qualifying places. But the determined Lindpointner has enormous potential, as the Junior European Championships bronze medal on the rings he won this year underlines. Only one Austrian in history had achieved this before him. And at the Future Cup – this year is his last as a junior – Lindpointner has often had a big appearance in the past, won gold with the team in 2022 and is expecting a lot again this year in the supreme discipline of the all-around.
Felix Neumüller is four years younger than him and the Mühlviertler also wants to go far in gymnastics. The anticipation for his first Future Cup is great. “It’s just a cool competition because so many top people come here,” says the young talent.
What training techniques does Vincent Lindpointner use to prepare for high-pressure competitions like the Future Cup?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner: Rising Star at the Future Cup**
**Editor**: Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Vincent Lindpointner, a talented gymnast from Austria who is gearing up for his last Future Cup as a junior. Vincent, thank you for joining us. You have been training exceptionally hard with a goal of competing in the Olympics. Can you tell us about your training routine and how you stay motivated?
**Vincent Lindpointner**: Thank you for having me! My training routine is pretty intense. I train nine times a week, totaling around 28 hours. It can be challenging, especially with my school commitments, but my passion for gymnastics keeps me motivated. I love the sport and the discipline it requires. The Olympic dream drives me every day.
**Editor**: That’s impressive dedication! You mentioned aiming for the Olympics in 2028 or 2032. What does Olympic preparation look like for you at this stage in your career?
**Vincent Lindpointner**: Right now, it’s all about honing my skills and gaining as much experience as possible. Competing in events like the Future Cup is crucial. It allows me to measure myself against some of the best gymnasts from different countries. I’ve had a good run in the past, winning gold with the team last year and securing a bronze at the Junior European Championships this year. Every competition is a chance to learn and grow.
**Editor**: Speaking of the Future Cup, this year marks its 19th edition. What does this competition mean to you, and how do you feel about competing against so many talented gymnasts?
**Vincent Lindpointner**: The Future Cup is a fantastic opportunity. It feels like a miniature World Cup, and I’m excited to be part of it one last time as a junior. Competing against such talented gymnasts from 21 nations will be challenging, but it pushes me to raise my game. I want to show what I can do in the all-around and leave a strong impression.
**Editor**: You’ve had a lot of successes already. How do you handle the pressure of competition, especially with your ambitions and the expectations on you?
**Vincent Lindpointner**: Pressure is part of the sport, and I try to embrace it. I focus on my training and prepare as best as I can. It’s also important to remember why I started gymnastics in the first place — the joy it brings me. I find that balancing the competitive aspect with my passion helps alleviate some of that pressure.
**Editor**: You have such a positive outlook! Lastly, what advice would you give to young gymnasts who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
**Vincent Lindpointner**: Always stay dedicated and be prepared to work hard. It’s a tough journey with ups and downs, but if you love what you do, it’s worth it. Surround yourself with good coaches and support, and remember to enjoy the process. Every small achievement counts!
**Editor**: Wise words, Vincent. We wish you the best of luck at the Future Cup and in your pursuit of Olympic dreams!
**Vincent Lindpointner**: Thank you so much! I appreciate it.
