Scandal-related termination of employment
The gymnastics community in Germany is currently embroiled in a legal dispute following allegations of misconduct at the Artistic Gymnastics Forum in Stuttgart. The lawsuit, brought forth by active and former gymnasts, has sparked a broader investigation by the state prosecutor's office.
The investigation, which began on February 6, is focusing on severe misconduct, including systematic physical and mental abuse, that has been reported since the end of last year, not only at the Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Forum but also at the federal support point in Mannheim.
The coach at the centre of the controversy is demanding a significant sum, with a "three" in front, as possible compensation for her termination by the Baden-Württemberg Gymnastics Federation (STB). However, the verdict in the coach's lawsuit may take another two to three months according to the court.
The STB had initially hoped to suspend the proceedings until the state prosecutor's investigation is complete, but this request was denied by the Stuttgart Labor Court. The federation's lawyer has stated that there had been training sessions resulting in injuries and gymnasts being made to cry, but they could not provide any names or data.
At a public hearing at the labor court, it was determined that no amicable settlement could be reached between the parties. The Baden-Württemberg Gymnastics Federation continues its work on the matter, and the German Gymnastics Federation has hired a law firm to oversee the investigation at both Stuttgart and Mannheim.
Silja Stoehr and Janoah Muller, European Championship silver medalists from Mannheim, have expressed their wish to have their suspended coaches Claudia Schunk and Alina Korrmann reinstated. Muller states that she hasn't experienced any problematic situations or psychological abuse.
If the coach's lawsuit is decided in her favour, the STB has announced that it will likely appeal. The federation has the option to file an appeal within two weeks after receiving the written reasoning.
Despite extensive online searches, there are no updates or detailed information available about the gymnastics scandal or its legal outcomes as of August 2025. This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
The Baden-Württemberg Gymnastics Federation (STB) and other relevant gymnastics authorities in Germany might find it necessary to review and renovate their community policy and employment policy in light of the ongoing investigations and allegations of misconduct in the gymnastics community. The sports sector, including gymnastics, should promote fairness, safety, and respect for all participants, hence the need for stringent employment policies and an environment that discourages and addresses misconduct swiftly.
