German Gymnastics Faces Abuse Allegations and Calls for Systemic Reform

Athletes allege systemic abuse at Stuttgart training center as investigations begin and leadership steps aside.

Overview

Multiple former gymnasts, including Tabea Alt and Janine Berger, have accused the Stuttgart training center of systemic physical and mental abuse, sparking a significant scandal in German gymnastics.
Former national coach Ulla Koch has temporarily stepped down as vice president of the German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) to facilitate investigations into the allegations.
The DTB has commissioned a Frankfurt-based law firm to conduct an independent investigation and plans to establish an interdisciplinary expert panel to address systemic issues.
Athletes have expressed distrust in the DTB's ability to ensure an impartial investigation, citing concerns over the independence of the commission formed by the federation itself.
A separate academic research group will analyze the prevalence of interpersonal violence in elite gymnastics to recommend future prevention and protection measures.