PARIS – France had a breakout performance in the triathlon at the Paris Games, securing its first individual medals in the sport, while Britain continued to demonstrate its dominance by winning three medals, bringing its total to 11 – nearly double the next-best nation.
France’s Cassandre Beaugrand delighted the home crowd by winning gold in the women’s race, comfortably beating Switzerland’s Julie Derron and Britain’s Beth Potter, despite pre-race nerves that made her vomit just before the start.
In the men’s race, Britain’s Alex Yee was on track for silver but surged at the last moment to overtake New Zealand’s Hayden Wilde and claim gold, with France’s Leo Bergere taking bronze.
Germany clinched the final triathlon gold in the mixed relay, with Laura Lindemann leading her team to victory in a thrilling finish. A photo finish initially led to Britain being announced as runners-up, but the United States’ team was later awarded the silver after organisers reviewed the results.
A bike crash during the first lap of the mixed relay saw the French team fall to the back of the pack. However, the enthusiastic home crowd inspired a spirited comeback to finish fourth. “The French crowd is so loud. We were last, and they were pushing us so much,” Beaugrand said. “I will keep a very strong memory from that.”
The triathlon event was set against the stunning backdrop of central Paris, with athletes competing along iconic streets and finishing on the Alexandre III bridge. The swim in the Seine River presented challenges, as heavy rain before the competition raised concerns about water quality. Despite this, organisers managed to proceed, but athletes noted that the uncertainty impacted their focus and performance.
With spectators lining the Champs-Elysees, the Invalides bridge, and the Quai d’Orsay, the triathlon showcased the sport in the heart of the city, allowing fans to watch for free. “The sport won today,” Yee said.