In the future indeed, gymnasts intending to participate in any official FIG competition will need to present a FIG licence. Such was the decision taken by the FIG Executive Board in May of 2008, which will come into force at the Artistic World Championships in London (GBR) in September of this year. With time, gymnasts from every discipline will need to follow suit.

The gymnastic passport serves to identify athletes and verify accreditation. The licence is required for the Olympic Games, World and Continental Championships, the World and Continental Games, World Cup Series, International Age Group Competitions and for all FIG-backed competitions and tournaments among federations.

By signing, an athlete attests to his or her identity and age, and consents to a formal athlete profile in the Anti-Doping Administration & Management System ADAMS, as provided in the WADA Code World Anti-Doping Agency.

FIG affiliated federations have until June 30, 2009 to register their gymnasts free of charge, after which time a registration fee will become payable.