At this year’s Olympics, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the United States — but perhaps not for the reason you think.

Recently, the International Olympic Committee announced that Rule 50 of its charter, which states that “no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas,” would be in effect for this year’s games. Despite an IOC survey finding that a majority of athletes believe it is inappropriate for Olympic athletes to demonstrate or express their views during the opening ceremony, on the field, or at the podium, some Americans have already criticized the committee’s decision.