Jordan Chiles’ coach Cecile Landi refutes cheating accusations after she wins Olympic bronze after review

PARIS, FRANCE: Jordan Chiles' coach, Cecile Landi, has strongly denied allegations of cheating after the Team USA gymnast won the bronze medal following an updated score in the individual floor exercise final at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The controversy erupted after Chiles’ score was adjusted, pushing her into third place over Romanian gymnast Ana Bărbosu, as reported by PEOPLE.

Coach Cecile Landi responds to claims of cheating in Jordan Chiles' bronze medal win

On August 5, Chiles originally scored 13.666, placing her fifth. Landi challenged the score, leading to a one-tenth of a point increase that secured Chiles the bronze medal.

The Romanian gymnast, who had initially been in third place, was visibly upset by the change and left the floor in tears. Landi, who also coaches Simone Biles, explained that the inquiry was made after observing Chiles’ improved performance and expressed surprise at the successful adjustment.

In response to accusations of cheating on Instagram, Landi clarified that Chiles earned her medal honestly.

“Jordan’s highest possible score value on floor is a 5.9. During qualifications and team finals, she received a 5.8, and we did not challenge it because elements were incomplete,” Landi explained. “The adjustment was made based on our belief that the performance was deserving of reconsideration.”

Romania protests after Jordan Chiles' bronze win

Following the score change, the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee filed a formal protest with the International Gymnastics Federation, calling for a reevaluation.

They criticized the decision, asserting that it was unfair and had a negative impact on Bărbosu. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu also voiced his disapproval, announcing his boycott of the closing ceremony in protest against what he described as a "scandalous situation."

“Our athletes were treated in an absolutely dishonorable manner,” he wrote in his translated Facebook post. “To withdraw a medal earned for honest work on the basis of an appeal, which neither the coaches nor the top technicians understand, is totally unacceptable!”

Ciolacu affirmed that Bărbosu and fifth-place finisher Sabrina Voinea Maneca would be recognized as Olympic medalists by the Romanian government, despite the official results.

Landi has asked for respect towards the outcome and Chiles, emphasizing that the adjustments made were within the rules of the sport. “Jordan won this bronze medal and didn’t steal anything from anyone. I simply did my job and fought for my athlete,” Landi stated.

Coach Cecile Landi's response to cheating allegations triggers online buzz

Coach Cecile Landi’s response to allegations of cheating surrounding Jordan Chiles' floor routine has sparked a heated discussion online. Landi defended Chiles after the gymnast’s bronze medal was confirmed following a score adjustment. Critics argued that the adjustment was justified, while others questioned the fairness and transparency of the scoring process.

One user commented, “Jordan hasn't cheated - that's ridiculous! It’s the judges at fault for not marking either Jordan's or Sabi's routines correctly! Scoring should be more transparent.” 

Another user clarified, “No one is saying she cheated!” 

A number of users expressed disbelief at the controversy. “R they serious,” one user wrote.

Another user defended the process, stating, “Let’s be real: Jordan Chiles didn’t steal anything. The judges responded to the coach’s challenge; it’s a part of how the sport happens. The judges’ decision changed the outcome. That’s it.”

Further criticism came from those accusing detractors of bias. “No they didn’t. Jordan Chiles’ coach appealed her score because she was not properly credited for one of her moves. It’s just like changing calls in other sports 'upon further review.' You’re (A) racist and (B) uninformed about gymnastics,” a user asserted.

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