USOPC Appeals CAS Decision, Striving to Restore Jordan Chiles' Bronze Medal

The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) is determined to challenge the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) ruling, which reversed Jordan Chiles' upgraded floor exercise score, potentially costing her the bronze medal she earned at the Paris Olympics. The USOPC maintains that CAS errors and a lack of due process warrant an appeal to restore Chiles' rightful recognition.

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has declared its intent to appeal the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) decision that reverted Jordan Chiles' floor exercise score to its original mark, thereby disqualifying her from the bronze medal she won at the Paris Olympics.

USOPC Appeals CAS Decision, Striving to Restore Jordan Chiles' Bronze Medal

The CAS ruled that the U.S. missed the deadline to file an appeal, which prompted a protest from the Romanian Gymnastics Federation alleging a four-second delay in the Americans' submission. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) subsequently ordered Chiles to surrender her bronze.

Undeterred, the USOPC firmly believes that Chiles "rightfully earned the bronze medal" and has identified errors committed by both CAS and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).

USOPC Appeals CAS Decision, Striving to Restore Jordan Chiles' Bronze Medal

In a statement, the USOPC outlined the procedural missteps that marred the process: "The initial error occurred in the scoring by FIG, and the second error was during the CAS appeal process, where the USOPC was not given adequate time or notice to effectively challenge the decision."

The Committee lamented the lack of proper representation and comprehensive case presentation opportunities, compelling them to pursue an appeal to rectify the injustice. "We are committed to pursuing an appeal to help Jordan Chiles receive the recognition she deserves. We remain dedicated to supporting her as an Olympic champion and will continue to work diligently to resolve this matter swiftly and fairly."

USOPC Appeals CAS Decision, Striving to Restore Jordan Chiles' Bronze Medal

The chances of overturning the CAS decision are uncertain, as the court generally serves as the ultimate arbitrator for international sporting disputes. However, the CAS's own assessment acknowledged that Chiles should be downgraded to fifth place, elevating Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu to the bronze medal position and Sabrina Maneca-Voinea to fourth.

The FIG has delegated the decision of medal reallocation to the IOC, which has confirmed its intention to withdraw Chiles' medal.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Despite the setbacks, the USOPC remains steadfast in its support for Chiles as an Olympic champion and will continue to fight for her rightful recognition. The outcome of this appeal will be closely watched by the international sports community and those concerned with fairness and due process in athletic competitions.