Israel to compete in Cheerleading World Championship for first time in history

Israel’s national cheerleading team at the International Cheer Union. (photo credit: Israel Cheer Union)

There is an almost symbolic connection between what this sport represents and what Israeli society needs today," said Ludmila Yasinskaya-Demari, team manager and founder of the Israel Cheer Union.

Israel will participate in the 2026 Cheerleading World Championships, which will take place from April 22 to April 24 in Orlando, US, for the first time in its history, the Israeli Cheer Union announced on Tuesday.

The competition, to be held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex at Disney, is organized by the International Cheer Union, the official global governing body of the sport.

Ludmila Yasinskaya-Demari, team manager and founder of the organization, said, “The very first participation of Israel’s national team in a Cheerleading World Championship is a significant moment, especially during such a challenging time for Israeli society."

"There is an almost symbolic connection between what this sport represents and what Israeli society needs today. The girls are not only training and performing, but they also carry a message of resilience, perseverance, and the ability to keep moving forward even when things are not simple,” she added.

The organization was founded three years ago and quickly gained popularity among Israelis, with currently around 15 clubs and hundreds of athletes among its members. It also achieved recognition by the International Cheer Union (ICU) and the European Cheer Union (ECU).