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 global 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 impact has the Future Cup had on the development of young gymnasts in Austria and internationally over the years?
**Interview with Helmut Kranzlmüller, President of the Upper Austria Gymnastics Association, on the Future Cup 2024**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Helmut. The Future Cup has been an important event for young gymnasts for two decades now. Can you tell us why this competition is so significant?
**Helmut Kranzlmüller**: Thank you for having me! The Future Cup is indeed special, as it brings together some of the world’s best young gymnasts in a setting that feels like a miniature World Cup. We have talents from 21 nations participating this year, and it’s incredible to witness the growth and international spirit of the event since its inception in 2004.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of growth, this year marks the 19th edition of the Future Cup. How have you seen the competition evolve over the years?
**Helmut Kranzlmüller**: The evolution has been remarkable! When we first started, we had a smaller number of participants, but now we attract top talents from around the globe. We’ve had Olympic champions and world-class gymnasts like Shinnosuke Oka and Max Whitlock compete here, which provides an inspiring atmosphere for our young gymnasts.
**Interviewer**: Local talents like Vincent Lindpointner seem to be making waves as well. What can you tell us about him and other promising athletes from Austria?
**Helmut Kranzlmüller**: Vincent is an exemplary athlete. At just 18, he’s already achieved significant milestones, including a bronze medal at the Junior European Championships. With his dedication—training up to 28 hours a week—he’s aiming for the Olympics in 2028 or 2032. We also have younger talents like Felix Neumüller, who is excited about his first Future Cup. The passion and commitment these athletes show is truly commendable.
**Interviewer**: It sounds like the Future Cup not only serves as a competition but also as a breeding ground for future stars in gymnastics. What are you most looking forward to this year?
**Helmut Kranzlmüller**: I’m looking forward to the camaraderie among the athletes and the thrilling performances. It’s not just about winning; it’s about creating lasting memories and friendships that will benefit these young athletes throughout their careers. I can’t wait to see how our local stars perform this year, especially since it’s Vincent’s last chance to compete as a junior.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for sharing your insights, Helmut. I’m sure the Future Cup will continue to inspire many young gymnasts around the world.
**Helmut Kranzlmüller**: Thank you! We appreciate the support and hope to see everyone in Linz for an exciting event!