On only four occasions since this event began in 1974 - then known as the World Sports Acrobatic Championships - has the medal table not been topped by either the Soviet Union or Russia.

Bulgaria won most golds in 1988, with China topping the list in 1994 and 1996 and Great Britain in 2010.

But the level of competition will be high across 16 medal events as the 28th edition of this International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) event, due to start tomorrow and conclude on Sunday (March 13),  in the state-of-the-art National Gymnastics Arena.

This will be the fourth time in the last three years that the Azerbaijan capital has hosted a World Championships in gymnastics.

Athletes will compete for gold, silver, and bronze in five categories – men’s pair, women’s pair, mixed Pair, women’s group, and men’s group.

Three world titles will be awarded in each category, one for each style of exercise - balance, dynamic, and combined.

A team title is also at stake.

Portugal will be preparing for these World Championships with particular fervour having captured its first world title in this event, in the women’s pair, at last year’s postponed 2020 edition in Geneva, thanks to the efforts of Rita Ferreira and Ana Teixeira.

"We are delighted to come together again in Baku," said FIG President Morinari Watanabe.

"Many challenges have been overcome in a short period of time in order for us to be here.

"For the athletes, these World Championships will undoubtedly be filled with unforgettable moments.

"But above all else, I would like to express my deepest sympathy and sorrow in light of the heartbreaking events taking place recently in the world and those suffering from them.

"I hope a day will come soon when all people can enjoy a healthy and peaceful time."

Azerbaijan's First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, President of the country's Gymnastics Federation, is confident the event will be a big success.

"Gymnastics disciplines have effectively been developing in our country," she said. 

"I am sure that we will witness the bright performances of the gymnasts, who will turn the next few days into a real sports festival."