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 inspired Vincent Lindpointner to pursue gymnastics at a competitive level?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner, Aspiring Gymnast and Future Cup Competitor**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Vincent. You’re gearing up for your last Future Cup as a junior, which must be exciting. Can you share what this competition means to you?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you for having me! The Future Cup is incredibly special to me. It’s a fantastic platform where young gymnasts from around the world come together, and it feels like we’re part of something much bigger—almost like a mini World Cup. Competing against such high-level talent is an honor, and I’m eager to showcase my skills.
**Editor:** You’ve already achieved notable success, including a bronze medal at the Junior European Championships. How do you feel about your performance going into this year’s Future Cup?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I’m feeling confident, but also aware of the challenge ahead. I’ve trained hard, and I’m excited to compete again, especially since I’ve had previous success here. Last year, winning gold with my team was a dream come true, and I’m hoping for similar results this time, particularly in the all-around.
**Editor:** You mentioned your goal is to compete in the Olympics, potentially as soon as 2028. What steps are you taking to reach that level?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s all about dedication right now. I train nine times a week, sometimes up to 28 hours. Every moment counts because the competition is fierce, and the qualification spots are limited. With the guidance of my coach, Michal Zoha, I’m focusing on refining my techniques and pushing my limits every day.
**Editor:** With such rigorous training, how do you balance gymnastics with your high school responsibilities?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s definitely a challenge! I try to manage my time effectively, squeezing in schoolwork whenever I can around training. It’s tough, but I’m passionate about gymnastics, and that motivates me to find that balance.
**Editor:** What advice would you give to younger gymnasts who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** I would say to stay committed and passionate. There will be tough days, but if you love what you do, it makes everything more manageable. Surround yourself with supportive coaches and teammates, and always remember to enjoy the journey.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Vincent! Best of luck at the Future Cup and in your pursuit of Olympic dreams.
**Vincent Lindpointner:** Thank you! I appreciate it!
