As the countdown to the Olympic Games Paris 2024 intensifies, the stakes are higher than ever for rowers around the world. With dreams of Olympic glory on the line, athletes from across the globe will converge in Lucerne, Switzerland, for the 2024 World Rowing Final Olympic & Paralympic Qualification Regatta from May 19 to 21.
Olympics
For 96 athletes – 48 men and 48 women – this event represents their final opportunity to secure a coveted spot at the Olympic Games. Any National Olympic Committee (NOC) can participate in events in which they have not already qualified, with no restrictions on the number of events an NOC can qualify for at this decisive regatta.
Following each qualification race, World Rowing will confirm to the respective NOCs, based on the results, that they have earned a quota place. The pressure is on as NOCs must indicate their acceptance of the qualified boats within 14 days. Should an NOC decline a place, the spot will be awarded to the first eligible boat among the unqualified contenders.
Paralympics
The highest ranked boats at the Final Paralympic Qualification Regatta will secure their spots for the Paralympic Games based on the allocated quota places for each event, with 8 places available for both men and women. If the regatta is not held, slots will be distributed to the highest ranked eligible National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) at the 2023 World Rowing Championships. Host countries may receive qualification places in specific events if they have not already qualified through the World Championships or Continental Qualification Regatta, with allocations based on their participation and rankings in the 2023 World Rowing Championships, amounting to 2 places each for men and women. Unused host country slots will be allocated through the Bipartite Commission Invitation Allocation process.
The anticipation has been building, and with the Entry Deadline having passed on May 6, the focus now shifts to the finals for the remaining Olympic spots. Starting at 10:00 on Tuesday, May 21, rowing enthusiasts and supporters will be on the edge of their seats as athletes give their all in pursuit of Olympic qualification.
This regatta is not just about securing a place in Paris; it's about the culmination of years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. It's a chance for athletes to etch their names into the annals of Olympic history and inspire generations to come.
As the world watches with bated breath, the Final Olympic Qualification Regatta promises to deliver thrilling moments, heart-stopping finishes, and, ultimately, dreams fulfilled. Don't miss a stroke of the action as rowers vie for their ticket to the greatest sporting spectacle on earth.