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.
Can you share any specific strategies or techniques you’re focusing on in your training leading up to the competition?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner, Austrian Gymnast and Future Cup Participant**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Vincent. You have an exciting journey ahead with the Future Cup approaching. Can you tell us what this competition means to you?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me! The Future Cup is a fantastic platform for young gymnasts like myself. It feels like a small World Cup, and it’s an honor to compete against talented athletes from around the world. This year is particularly special for me since it’s my last as a junior, and I want to leave a lasting impression.
**Editor:** It’s great to hear your enthusiasm. You’ve already had a successful year, winning a bronze medal at the Junior European Championships. How does that achievement influence your preparation for the Future Cup?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Winning that bronze medal was a huge confidence boost for me! It showed me that hard work pays off and I belong on the international stage. I’m using that experience to fuel my training and stay focused on my goals. Competing at the Future Cup gives me a chance to build on that momentum.
**Editor:** Speaking of hard work, you’re putting in a staggering 28 hours of training a week. What drives your ambition, especially with the Olympics in your sights?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** My ultimate dream is to compete in the Olympics, either in 2028 or 2032. The idea of representing Austria on such a prestigious platform motivates me every day. I love gymnastics, and each training session is an opportunity to improve and learn. Plus, being at the performance center with coach Michal Zoha pushes me to give my best.
**Editor:** That’s incredibly inspiring, Vincent. As you look towards the Future Cup, what are your personal goals for this competition?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’m aiming for a strong performance in the all-around and to contribute to the team’s success. Last year, we won gold together, and I’d love to replicate that feeling. I want to prove to myself that all those hours of training are worth it and that I can indeed contend with the best.
**Editor:** With talents like you and young gymnasts looking up to the Future Cup, the future of gymnastics in Austria looks bright. What message do you have for aspiring athletes?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’d say to believe in yourself and stay committed to your goals. Progress may be slow and hard at times, but perseverance is key. Surround yourself with supportive coaches and teammates, and never lose sight of why you started.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Vincent. Best of luck at the Future Cup and on your journey towards the Olympics!
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate your support!