The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to ignite the track and field world with electrifying competitions, fierce rivalries, and potential record-breaking performances. As the world’s best athletes gather at the iconic Stade de France, anticipation is high for a thrilling spectacle that will showcase the pinnacle of human athleticism.
Paris 2024 Olympics Athletics Schedule:
Track and field events are scheduled from August 1st to 11th, promising 11 days of exhilarating action. The competition kicks off with the men’s and women’s 20km race walks on the first day, setting the stage for a series of captivating events across various disciplines. From sprints and hurdles to jumps and throws, every day will offer a unique blend of athletic prowess and competitive spirit.

Key Athletes to Watch at the 2024 Olympics
- Sprints: The sprint events are expected to be explosive, with Noah Lyles (USA) aiming for the sprint double in the 100m and 200m. Sha’Carri Richardson (USA) is also a contender in the women’s sprints, adding to the excitement with her remarkable speed and charisma.
- Middle Distance: Faith Kipyegon (KEN) is a dominant force in the women’s 1500m, while the men’s 1500m promises an intense battle between Jakob Ingebrigtsen (NOR) and Timothy Cheruiyot (KEN).
- Distance: All eyes will be on Eliud Kipchoge (KEN), the marathon world record holder, as he seeks to defend his Olympic title. Sifan Hassan (NED) will be a formidable competitor in the women’s 5000m and 10,000m events.
- Hurdles: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA) is the one to beat in the women’s 400m hurdles, while the men’s 110m hurdles could see a thrilling showdown between Grant Holloway (USA) and Hansle Parchment (JAM).
- Field Events: Armand Duplantis (SWE) is the reigning Olympic champion and world record holder in the men’s pole vault, making him a strong favourite for gold. Yaroslava Mahuchikh (UKR) is a rising star in the women’s high jump and could challenge for a medal.
South African Stars Shine Bright
South Africa has a talented contingent of track and field athletes ready to leave their mark on the Paris Olympics. Akani Simbine is a seasoned sprinter and a medal contender in the 100m and 4x100m relay. Wayde van Niekerk, the 400m world record holder, has shifted his focus to the 200m, adding a new dimension to the competition.
In the field events, long jumpers Cheswill Johnson and Jovan van Vuuren, along with shot putter Kyle Blignaut and discus thrower Victor Hogan, are all capable of reaching the podium. Prudence Sekgodiso is a rising star in the women’s 800m and could surprise the field with her exceptional talent.
2024 Olympics Track and Field Predictions
With a star-studded field of athletes from around the globe, the track and field events promise to be a spectacle like no other. Here are the predictions:
- Men’s 100m: A fierce battle between Noah Lyles (USA), Fred Kerley (USA), Letsile Tebogo (BOT), and Ferdinand Omanyala (KEN).
- Women’s 100m: Sha’Carri Richardson (USA) is the favourite, with tough competition from Marie-Josée Ta Lou (CIV) and Julien Alfred (LCA).
- Men’s 200m: Noah Lyles (USA) is the frontrunner, but Erriyon Knighton (USA) and Kenneth Bednarek (USA) could challenge.
- Women’s 200m: A wide-open race with Dina Asher-Smith (GBR) and Gabby Thomas (USA) as potential medal contenders.
- Women’s 400m Hurdles: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA) is the clear favourite.
- Men’s 110m Hurdles: A wide-open race with Grant Holloway (USA), Hansle Parchment (JAM), and Devon Allen (USA) as top contenders.
Related article: Team SA’s Track & Field Stars to Watch at the 2024 Paris Olympics