USA Gymnastics officials announced that an arbitration panel has declined to reconsider a decision that requires gymnast Jordan Chiles to return the bronze medal she earned in the floor exercise at the Paris Olympics. Despite this setback, USA Gymnastics remains committed to efforts that would allow Chiles to keep her medal.
In a statement, USA Gymnastics expressed their disappointment: “The Court of Arbitration for Sport informed us on Monday that their rules prohibit revisiting an arbitral award, even in light of conclusive new evidence. We are deeply disheartened by this decision and will continue to explore every available avenue and appeal process, including bringing the matter to the Swiss Federal Tribunal, to ensure fair scoring, proper placement, and the rightful award of Jordanโs medal.”
The controversy centers around a rejected on-floor appeal by Chiles’ coach, which initially elevated her to third place. CAS ruled that the appeal was submitted 4 seconds past the one-minute time limit for scoring inquiries. However, USA Gymnastics contested this timing, stating on Sunday that they had provided video evidence showing that Team USA coach Cecile Landi initiated the appeal 13 seconds before the deadline.
The dispute over these crucial seconds could lead to a prolonged legal battle over the gymnastics scores. On Saturday night, the International Gymnastics Federation affirmed its support for the courtโs decision, promoting Ana Barbosu of Romania to third place. The International Olympic Committee followed suit on Sunday, announcing plans to reallocate the medal.
According to the CAS ruling, Landi’s request to add 0.1 points to Chiles’ score was made 1 minute and 4 seconds after her initial score was posted, thus exceeding the allowed time. The IOC stated that it would coordinate with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee regarding the return of Chilesโ bronze medal and would collaborate with the Romanian Olympic Committee to plan a reallocation ceremony in honor of Barbosu. Rebeca Andrade of Brazil claimed the gold, with Simone Biles of the U.S. taking silver.
Any further appeal could be brought before Switzerlandโs highest court, the Swiss Federal Tribunal, or potentially the European Court of Human Rights.
In a show of support, rapper Flavor Flav, who has been a vocal supporter of several 2024 Olympians, including discus thrower Veronica Fraley, shared on the social media platform X that he had created a bedazzled bronze medal as a potential replacement for Chiles while the U.S. continues its battle with the governing bodies. The medal, fashioned in the style of a clockโa signature accessory the rapper has worn for decadesโwas offered as a gesture of solidarity.
Chiles’ mother, Gina Charles, responded on X with gratitude: “Thank you. This means the world. Sheโs not on socials right now, as you can imagine, but Iโll make sure to share this with her.”
