Paris, September 8, 2024 – David Weir, the renowned six-time Paralympic champion, has announced his retirement from Great Britain competition following his performance in the men’s T54 marathon at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. At 45 years old, Weir finished fifth in the marathon, bringing his illustrious career with Team GB to a poignant close.
Weir, who first competed at the Atlanta Games in 1996, has been a dominant force in wheelchair racing. His career highlights include two gold medals at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics and four titles at London 2012. Despite his recent performance, where he finished over five minutes behind gold medallist Marcel Hug of Switzerland, Weir remains an iconic figure in the sport.
“I’m quite emotional as I know it’s my last race for GB, this will be my last international,” Weir told BBC Sport after the race. “I’ll still do the major marathons as I really enjoy them and I’ve got Berlin in two weeks.”
Weir’s decision to retire comes after a rollercoaster journey in recent years. Following the Rio 2016 Games, where he failed to medal and faced accusations of race manipulation, Weir stepped away from international competition. He made a return for the Tokyo 2020 Games, finishing fifth in the marathon, and continued to compete on both the track and road in Paris.
“My body just couldn’t cope with it today to be honest,” Weir said. “I was the oldest in that field today but still highly competitive. Daniel [Romanchuk, who finished fourth] is 20 years younger than me – I could be his dad – so I’m doing alright. I gave it my all today and that’s all I can give.”
Weir’s career has been marked by both personal and professional triumphs. His resilience and determination have been hallmarks of his time on the track, and his achievements have inspired many. Despite his reluctance to self-congratulate, Weir acknowledges the significance of his accomplishments.
“I’ll look back on my GB career with pride,” he stated. “I don’t really pat myself on the back. I should really. I should be proud of what I’ve done. I’ve had a great career. I’m trying not to get emotional but it’s time. I think it’s time.”
In the women’s T54 marathon, Britain’s Eden Rainbow-Cooper faced a setback as she was forced to withdraw due to a back injury. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s Catherine Debrunner continued her exceptional performance, securing her fifth gold medal of the Games.
David Weir’s retirement marks the end of an era in Paralympic athletics. His legacy, defined by his multiple gold medals and his role as a pioneering athlete, will continue to inspire future generations of competitors. As he shifts focus to major marathons, including the upcoming Berlin event, fans and fellow athletes alike will remember him as one of the greatest in the sport’s history.
