Budapest, 7 August 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has cancelled his appearance at Sunday's closing ceremony in protest over a gymnast from his country losing a bronze medal.

Ana Barbosu had originally finished third in Monday's floor exercise final. But she dropped to fourth after an American team appeal against the mark for their athlete Jordan Chiles was upheld, elevating Chiles from fifth to bronze.

Ciolacu was not impressed, saying on Facebook: "To deny a medal that was earned through honest work because of an appeal that neither the coaches nor the top gymnasts understand is completely unacceptable."

He said the incident brought back memories of the Soviet Union/communist era.

"I remember very well how the Russians stole (medals) from us during communism and how we tried to argue with them back then," he said.

"I don't want to argue with anyone today, I just want to protest against the clear injustice against the Romanians, who have fully proven their worth!"

Romania have so far won seven medals at the Paris Games, three gold, three silver and one bronze.

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