Using a set of defined quality standards, the FIG publishes an annual list of its top performing federations, with Britain topping the list for 2012, followed by Belarus in second place and France in third.

Last year's Summer Olympic host nation took the top billing after accruing points based on a range of criteria including participation in both competitive and non-competitive events, such World Cups and the World Gymnaestrada.

It also covers participation in and organisation of FIG academies and respect of event deadlines and financial matters.

"We congratulate British Gymnastics for this reward that illustrates the high level of professional behaviour and fair cooperation with FIG," Olivier Strebel, FIG's communication and marketing director said.

During the London 2012 Olympics Britain secured a landmark men's team bronze medal, while Louis Smith (pictured top) and Max Whitlock took pommel horse silver and bronze respectively, and Beth Tweddle claimed bronze on the asymmetric bars.

Their performance was rewarded with a 34 per cent increase in UK Sport funding for British Gymnastics' world class programme going forward to Rio 2016.

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