Jordan Chiles’ Medal Safe as CAS Dismisses Bias Allegations

Jordan Chiles’ Olympic bronze medal remains unchanged as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has rejected accusations of bias in its decision not to reconsider the case. CAS had previously upheld an appeal from the Romanian Olympic Committee, which argued that the US team submitted their challenge regarding Chiles’ score too late. The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) had promoted Romania’s Ana Barbosu from fourth to third in the Paris 2024 women’s floor final based on this appeal.

USA Gymnastics requested that CAS reconsider its decision, presenting new video evidence to prove that the challenge was timely. However, CAS denied this request, leading US media to accuse the CAS panel, particularly its chairman, of bias due to alleged connections with Romania. CAS strongly condemned these accusations as “outrageous” and stated that no panel members faced challenges during the procedure, implying that all parties were satisfied with the panel’s impartiality.

USA Gymnastics strongly disagreed with CAS’s detailed decision, claiming that errors in email addresses provided by CAS caused delays in receiving critical case filings. This delay allegedly prevented them from responding adequately and gathering evidence. The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) echoed these concerns, stating that CAS misdirected crucial communications which affected their ability to address the matter effectively.

During the final, Jordan Chiles’ initially moved from fifth to third after her coach filed an inquiry which Romania later contested as untimely. USA Gymnastics submitted a letter and video arguing that the inquiry was within the allowed timeframe. However, CAS confirmed that evidence showed the inquiry was late and all parties agreed on the official timekeeper’s report.

CAS emphasized its role in ruling based on law and evidence, maintaining that the one-minute rule was clear and appropriately applied in this case.