Court denies appeal to reinstate USA's Jordan Chiles's Olympic bronze
What's the story
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed an appeal by Team USA to reinstate the bronze medal of American gymnast Jordan Chiles from the 2024 Paris Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had stripped Chiles of her medal, stating that the coach's appeal to her score was submitted four seconds past the permitted time. This delay led to a lower score than initially thought, resulting in Romanian Ana Barbosu receiving the bronze instead.
Evidence dismissed
CAS stands firm despite new evidence
USA Gymnastics, the US Olympic, and Paralympic Committee challenged the IOC's decision, presenting additional video evidence, which, as per them, shows the coach's appeal was within the 60-second time limit. However, CAS dismissed this argument, asserting it cannot reconsider an arbitral award even if new conclusive evidence of a scoring error is provided. "We are deeply disappointed by the notification and will continue to pursue every possible avenue and appeal process," USA Gymnastics stated.
Timing controversy
Dispute over timing of coach's appeal continues
CAS ruled that the appeal to add 0.1 to Chiles's score was outside the 60-second window granted by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). USA Gymnastics contested this timing, providing evidence showing that the coach first stated her request 47 seconds after the score was posted. "The time-stamped, video evidence submitted by USA Gymnastics shows Landi first stated her request to file an inquiry at the inquiry table 47 seconds after the score is posted," said USA Gymnastics in a statement.
Decision upheld
CAS upholds decision despite new evidence
Despite the new evidence presented by USA Gymnastics, CAS maintained its decision. "USA Gymnastics was notified by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Monday that their rules do not allow for an arbitral award to be reconsidered even when conclusive new evidence is presented," CAS stated. The dispute over Chiles's bronze medal continues beyond the conclusion of the Paris Olympics.
Medal controversy
USA Gymnastics determined to reinstate the bronze
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) and the IOC have confirmed they will respect CAS's decision. The IOC will liaise with the USOPC regarding the return of Chiles's bronze and will co-ordinate with the Romanian Olympic Committee for a reallocation ceremony honoring Barbosu. Meanwhile, USA Gymnastics plans to continue its efforts to restore Chiles's medal, potentially appealing to Swiss authorities.