By Emily Goddard

cirque du soleilFebruary 25 - The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has extended its partnership with Cirque du Soleil in a new deal that runs for the course of the current Olympic cycle until 2016.

In a collaboration that dates back to 2009, the Canadian circus company will continue to work with gymnastics' world governing body to identify breakthrough talents while enhancing still further the creativity of FIG events.

"For our athletes, this agreement opens the door to new opportunities once they stop competing," said FIG President Bruno Grandi, who signed the agreement with Cirque du Soleil's vice-president of casting and performance Bernard Petiot in Lausanne.

FIG strengthens ties with Cirque du Soleil Bernard Petiot and Bruno Grandi 250213Bruno Grandi (right) signs an agreement with Bernard Petiot (left) to strengthen FIG's ties with Cirque du Soleil

"This is also an extraordinary chance for gymnastics to benefit from the expertise of Cirque du Soleil in terms of conceiving and creating spectacles.

"Future FIG galas are sure to be inspirational events."

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