From December 11 to 13, Uzhhorod will host the third Rizatdinova Cup All-Ukrainian Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament, founded by Olympic bronze medalist Anna Rizatdinova. According to the organizers, this year the competition will move outside of Kyiv for the first time and take place at the Zolotaya Gora sports complex. Ukrainian gymnast Oleksandra Paskal has become the ambassador for this year's tournament; last year she attended the competitions as an invited guest, and now she joins the project as its official representative.
New Location: Why Uzhhorod
The change of the host city, according to the organizers, is due to security conditions. While the previous two tournaments were held in Kyiv, the third Rizatdinova Cup is moving to western Ukraine, to Uzhhorod. For young athletes, coaches, and their families, this means not only a change in geography, but also an opportunity to spend a competitive weekend in a more stable environment. The tournament, as before, will bring together gymnasts from different regions of the country, giving them a chance to gain competitive experience, demonstrate their skills, and meet peers from other cities.
Tournament Ambassador — Oleksandra Paskal
Oleksandra Paskal, known for her story of returning to rhythmic gymnastics after a severe trial, has become the ambassador of the third Rizatdinova Cup. According to the organizers' plan, her journey should serve as an example for the young participants of the competition. "I am very happy to become the ambassador of the Rizatdinova Cup! For me, this is a great honor and responsibility. I sincerely thank Anna Rizatdinova for her trust and the opportunity to be part of this important sporting event," Paskal noted. The gymnast emphasized that she wants to popularize rhythmic gymnastics and motivate children to play sports and believe in their abilities.
History and Goals of the Project
The Rizatdinova Cup is being held for the third time, and its founder is Anna Rizatdinova, the bronze medalist of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. "I want the Rizatdinova Cup to be not only about sports results, but also about self-belief, support, and an opportunity for every child to unlock their potential. It is important to me that girls from different corners of Ukraine can meet, show their achievements, and feel part of a large sports community," said the founder of the tournament. Among the guests of honor at last year's event in Kyiv were representatives of Ukrainian sports and culture, including Matvey Bedny, Vadym Guttsait, Irina Blokhina, Marina Kardash, Zhan Beleniuk, and Svitlana Tarabarova.
Competition Program
The 2026 competitions will last for three days, from December 11 to 13. The program includes performances by young gymnasts, award ceremonies, and meetings with special guests. Thus, the Rizatdinova Cup maintains its format not only as a sporting event, but also as a social event aimed at supporting children's sports and building a community around rhythmic gymnastics in Ukraine.
