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.
How is Felix Neumüller preparing to make a strong impression in his first Future Cup?
**Interview with Vincent Lindpointner and Felix Neumüller Ahead of the Future Cup in Linz**
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for joining us today! Vincent, this is your last year competing as a junior. How does it feel to reflect on your journey in gymnastics as you prepare for the Future Cup?
**Vincent Lindpointner:** It’s definitely bittersweet for me. I’ve had so many incredible experiences in my junior career, like winning gold with my team last year. Competing at the Future Cup has been a huge part of my growth, and it feels exciting to wrap it up while aiming for my biggest goals ahead.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of big goals, you’ve mentioned aspirations for the Olympics in 2028 or 2032. What is your plan to achieve that?
**Vincent:** Well, it’s going to take a lot of hard work and dedication. I’m training nine times a week, sometimes up to 28 hours. But I believe in my potential, especially after winning the bronze at the Junior European Championships. My coach, Michal Zoha, is really helping me refine my skills, so I’m focused and ready to give it my all.
**Interviewer:** That’s very impressive! Felix, you’re competing in the Future Cup for the first time this year. What are your thoughts going into this event?
**Felix Neumüller:** I’m super excited! It’s a cool competition, especially since many top gymnasts from around the world are participating. I see this as a great opportunity to learn from them and to showcase what I can do on the mat.
**Interviewer:** How are you preparing for such a prestigious event at a young age?
**Felix:** I’ve been training hard and soaking up as much knowledge as I can from my coaches and older teammates. I want to make the most of this experience and hopefully make a mark in my first Future Cup.
**Interviewer:** Vincent, what advice would you give to Felix as he steps into this competitive arena?
**Vincent:** I’d say just enjoy the experience! Competing at this level can feel intense, but remember why you love gymnastics. Focus on your routines, trust your training, and don’t let the pressure get to you.
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for your insights. Best of luck at the Future Cup—it’s sure to be an exciting event for all the participants!