Team GB Defends Gold in Men’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay at Paris 2024

Team GB has successfully defended their Olympic gold in the men’s 4x200m freestyle relay at Paris 2024, with James Guy, Duncan Scott, Matt Richards, and Tom Dean starring in a thrilling race. The quartet finished with a winning time of 6:59:43, cementing their dominance in the event.

Great Britain swimmers James Guy, Duncan Scott, Matt Richards, and Tom Dean

Widely regarded as overwhelming favourites, Team GB had set the fastest time of 7:05.11 in the heats, progressing confidently to the final. James Guy got Team GB off to a strong start, staying close to America’s Luke Hobson. Germany and Japan also pushed hard, but Guy was first to turn at the 100m mark, driving Team GB into the lead and giving Tom Dean a half-body advantage heading into the first changeover.

Tom Dean kept the pressure on but slightly dropped back during the change as Germany surged and Australia recovered from a poor start to narrow the leading pack. Despite this, Dean managed to maintain Team GB’s lead, setting up Matt Richards for the third leg. Richards, the individual silver medallist, delivered a brilliant performance, handing Duncan Scott a half-body lead heading into the final 200m.

Under pressure from the Americans, Duncan Scott maintained his poise, gliding through the water to hold off the challenge and finish strongly. His performance secured another gold for Team GB as the quartet successfully defended their title. The team's blend of individual brilliance, competitive spirit, and star quality allowed them to dominate the field, with Scott finishing over a body length ahead.

The USA claimed the silver medal, while Australia finished third on the podium, more than two seconds behind Team GB's gold medal winners. This victory not only reaffirms Team GB's strength in the 4x200m freestyle relay but also adds another remarkable achievement to their Olympic legacy.