El Bakkali Defends Olympic Title in Dramatic 3,000m Steeplechase.
Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali showcased his exceptional talent by becoming the first man since 1936 to successfully defend his Olympic title in the 3,000m steeplechase. In an eventful and dramatic final at the Paris 2024 Olympics, El Bakkali demonstrated his tactical prowess and resilience, securing victory in a time of 8 minutes and 6.05 seconds.
The 28-year-old Moroccan, who is also a two-time world champion, executed a patient race strategy. He only moved into the lead as he approached the home straight, taking advantage of a late fall by his main rival, Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma. Girma, the world record holder, suffered a heavy fall at the third-to-last barrier, which resulted in him being stretchered off the track and taken to hospital for further treatment. The extent of Girma’s injuries remains unclear, but his dramatic exit overshadowed what had been a thrilling contest between the two athletes.
El Bakkali had to fend off a surprise late challenge from American Kenneth Rooks, who made an unexpected break towards the end. However, the Moroccan maintained his composure and powered past Rooks to claim the gold medal. Rooks held on to secure the silver medal, while Kenya’s Abraham Kibiwot finished strongly to take the bronze.
El Bakkali’s victory mirrors the achievement of Finland’s Volmari Iso-Hollo, who won back-to-back Olympic steeplechase titles in 1932 and 1936. This win further cements El Bakkali’s legacy as one of the all-time greats in the 3,000m steeplechase.
Following Girma’s fall, the Paris 2024 organisers released a statement, saying: “Following his fall in the 3,000m steeplechase, Lamecha Girma received immediate care from the on-site medical teams. Our thoughts are with him, and we are sending him our very best wishes for a swift recovery.”
El Bakkali’s victory, while celebrated, will likely be remembered alongside the unfortunate incident that befell his Ethiopian rival. Nonetheless, his place in Olympic history is now firmly secured as the latest athlete to defend the steeplechase crown.
