Chiles Appeals to Swiss Court for Olympic Bronze.

American gymnast Jordan Chiles, whose Olympic bronze medal was revoked by an arbitration court days after the floor exercise final in Paris, has appealed her case to Switzerland's highest federal court. The medal ceremony, a historic moment with three Black women sharing the podium, was undone by a last-minute inquiry that boosted Chiles' score into third place. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) deemed the inquiry filed a few seconds too late, despite U.S. gymnastics officials providing video evidence to the contrary. The bronze medal was then reallocated to Ana Barbosu of Romania, leaving Chiles heartbroken and facing a barrage of racist online abuse.

Chiles, represented by the law firm Gibson Dunn, has now filed an appeal with the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland, challenging the CAS's decision. The appeal argues that the CAS's ruling was "fundamentally unfair" and that Chiles was denied due process. Chiles' legal team asserts that the CAS panel's decision was based on flawed procedures and an unjust outcome, emphasizing that both Chiles and her coach followed all the rules.

The appeal specifically asks that the CAS ruling be vacated and the case reconsidered. A retrial, according to Chiles' law firm, would allow her to present evidence, including video footage that shows her coach's scoring inquiry was submitted on time. This evidence, they argue, would demonstrate that the CAS panel's decision was based on a misunderstanding of the facts.

Furthermore, the appeal asks that CAS arbitrator Hamid Gharavi be recused from any future hearing. Gharavi, who presided over the Chiles hearing, is currently providing legal counsel to Romania in other international proceedings, raising concerns about potential bias. While the court has stated that Gharavi disclosed his work to the parties, Chiles' legal team believes his involvement creates a conflict of interest.

Chiles' appeal to the Swiss court represents a final attempt to reclaim her rightful place on the podium. This case highlights the importance of fair play and due process in international sporting events, particularly when athletes are facing serious consequences for decisions made by arbitration panels. The outcome of this appeal will have significant implications for both Chiles and the future of Olympic competition.