USA Gymnastics has announced that an arbitration panel will not reconsider its decision requiring Jordan Chiles to return the bronze medal she won in the floor exercise at the Paris Olympics. Despite this setback, the organization remains determined to fight for Chiles to keep her medal.
In a statement, USA Gymnastics expressed deep disappointment after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) informed them that its rules do not allow for the reconsideration of an arbitral award, even when new evidence is presented. The statement said, “We will continue to explore all available options, including an appeal to the Swiss Federal Tribunal, to ensure a fair outcome for Jordan.”
The controversy arose when CAS voided an on-floor appeal made by Jordan Chiles’ coach, which had initially placed her in third. The panel ruled that the appeal was filed 4 seconds past the one-minute time limit for scoring inquiries. USA Gymnastics disputes this timing, stating that they have video evidence showing that Team USA coach Cecile Landi made the appeal 13 seconds before the deadline.
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has decided to uphold CAS’s ruling, which elevates Ana Barbosu of Romania to the bronze medal position. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed this decision and has already begun the process of reallocating the medal.
CAS stated that Landi’s inquiry to add 0.1 points to Jordan Chiles’ score was made 1 minute and 4 seconds after her initial score was posted, exceeding the allowed time frame. The IOC has indicated that they will work with the USOPC to arrange the return of Jordan Chiles’ bronze medal and plan a reallocation ceremony for Barbosu.
This situation could lead to a lengthy legal battle, possibly involving appeals to Switzerland’s highest court, the Swiss Federal Tribunal, or even the European Court of Human Rights.
In a surprising twist, rapper Flavor Flav, a vocal supporter of 2024 Olympians, crafted a bedazzled bronze medal for Jordan Chiles as a symbolic replacement. The rapper, known for wearing clocks as jewelry, shared his gesture on social media platform X, expressing support for Chiles while the U.S. continues its fight.
“Thank you. It means the world,” responded Gina Charles, Jordan Chiles’ mother, on X. She added, “She’s not on socials right now, as you can imagine. I’ll share it with her.”
The dispute over Chiles’ medal highlights the complexities of gymnastics scoring and the potential for lengthy legal proceedings in sports disputes. As the case unfolds, USA Gymnastics remains steadfast in their commitment to ensuring justice for their athlete.
