Following the success of the 18th African Artistic Gymnastics Championships in 2023, Gymnastics South Africa is set to once again welcome the continent’s top gymnasts, this time for the 20th African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships and the 19th African Trampoline Championships. Both events will take place at the Heartfelt Arena in Tshwane, providing a week of world‑class competition from 30 April to 7 May.

“These championships are an incredible opportunity for South African gymnastics,” says Adele Heine, President of Gymnastics South Africa. “Our top gymnasts get the opportunity to compete on home soil against the best of Africa and sport-loving South Africans get the chance to see some of the best gymnastics talent in action. Both events are World Championships qualifying events and we are guaranteed to see some outstanding performances.”

South Africa has a proud history of hosting both disciplines. This will be the fifth time hosting the African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships, with previous editions held in 1994, 2006, 2012 and 2014. In Trampoline gymnastics, South Africa has successfully welcomed continental gymnasts multiple times, consistently creating a competitive and inspiring environment.

Over the past 25 years, South African Rhythmic gymnasts have collected 35 gold, 44 silver, and 27 bronze medals at the African Championships, making the country the second most successful on the all-time medal table behind Egypt.

South African Trampoline gymnasts have a strong tradition of success on the continental stage too, regularly reaching podiums in events such as Individual Trampoline and Double-Mini. “Our trampoline team has worked hard to maintain South Africa’s strong presence on the African stage,” says Mandy Zoonekynd, Gymnastics South Africa Trampoline Chairperson. “With a combination of experienced gymnasts and rising juniors, we’re confident that 2026 will showcase the talent, precision, and energy that South African trampolinists are known for.”

10 countries will be represented in the Rhythmic competition, while five countries will compete in the Trampoline championships. Final team line-ups will be released soon.

Event Schedule

Rhythmic Gymnastics

Thursday, 30 April 2026

• Opening Ceremony
• Qualification – Individual
• Qualification – Group

Friday, 1 May 2026

• Qualification – Individual
• Qualification – Group
• Medal Ceremony – All Around and Group

Saturday, 2 May 2026

• Rhythmic Gymnastics Finals – Senior and Junior
• Medal Ceremony

Trampoline Gymnastics

Tuesday, 5 May 2026

• Trampoline Opening Ceremony
• Qualifications

Wednesday, 6 May 2026

• Trampoline Finals
• Medal Ceremony

Gymnastics South Africa looks forward to welcoming gymnasts, officials, supporters, and fans from across Africa to Tshwane, as the nation continues its tradition of excellence in gymnastics. The 2026 African Championships promise to be an important stepping stone for young gymnasts pursuing continental and global success, including qualification pathways to the Youth Olympic Games and World Championships.

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