In a thrilling conclusion to the men’s 4x400m relay at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the United States secured a narrow victory over Botswana, with both teams delivering two of the fastest times ever recorded in the event.
The U.S. team, anchored by Rai Benjamin, set an Olympic record of 2:54.43, while Botswana finished just a tenth of a second behind (2:54.53 AR), setting an African record. Great Britain claimed bronze with a European record (2:55.83 AR).
Highlights
- USA Wins Gold: The United States clinched the gold medal in the men’s 4x400m relay at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with an Olympic record time of 2:54.43.
- Botswana’s Historic Silver: Botswana secured the silver medal, setting a new African record of 2:54.53, just 0.10 seconds behind the USA.
- Great Britain Takes Bronze: Great Britain and Northern Ireland claimed bronze, setting a new European record with a time of 2:55.83.
- Epic Anchor Leg: Rai Benjamin and Letsile Tebogo delivered thrilling anchor legs, pushing their teams to two of the three fastest times in history.
Historic 4x400m Final: USA vs. Botswana
The men’s 4x400m relay at the Paris 2024 Olympics will be remembered as one of the most intense and competitive in history.
The United States and Botswana pushed each other to the brink, both teams narrowly missing the world record set by the U.S. in 1993. The U.S. team, anchored by 400m hurdles champion Rai Benjamin, clocked an Olympic record of 2:54.43, with Botswana finishing just 0.10 seconds behind, setting a new African record.
The Battle for Gold
From the start, it was clear that this race would be a clash of titans. The U.S., Botswana, and Great Britain were evenly matched through the first two legs, with each team exchanging the lead multiple times.
As the race progressed, it became a battle between Rai Benjamin of the U.S. and Letsile Tebogo of Botswana, both delivering phenomenal anchor legs. Tebogo’s impressive 43.04 split pushed Benjamin to his limit, but the American managed to hold on for the victory.
The Rise of African Sprinting
Botswana’s performance in the 4x400m relay marks a significant milestone for African athletics. Traditionally known for middle and long-distance prowess, this achievement highlights the continent’s growing presence in sprint events.
Tebogo’s stellar performance, coupled with Botswana’s silver in the relay, is a clear indication that African nations are emerging as formidable competitors in sprints on the global stage.
Insights on the Performance
The close finish between the U.S. and Botswana not only underscores the level of competition in modern athletics but also signals a shift in the dynamics of the sport. Botswana’s rise in sprinting, coupled with their first-ever Olympic gold in the 200m earlier in the games, marks a new era for African athletics.
The high level of performance across teams also reflects the increasing global competitiveness, with athletes from all regions pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the track.
