Paris 2024 Olympics: Logan Martin, Anthony Jeanjean, Kieran Reilly - ones to watch in men’s BMX freestyle
In a city known for its artistry and elegance, BMX freestyle cyclists will bring a new form of creativity to Paris, turning the Urban Park at Place de la Concorde into a canvas for their aerial masterpieces.
Twelve men and twelve women riders will dazzle spectators as they flip through the air with the Eiffel Tower as their backdrop, showcasing moves that promise to create a thrilling spectacle, captivating both die-hard BMX freestyle fans and curious newcomers alike.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 kick off the men’s BMX freestyle events on 30 July, and all eyes will be on three standout athletes: Logan Martin, Anthony Jeanjean, and Kieran Reilly.
Logan Martin: the reigning Olympic champion from Down Under
From the sunny shores of the Gold Coast, Martin rides into Paris carrying the weight of history on his shoulders. Martin's career has been nothing short of spectacular and consistent, with two world titles (2017, 2021), the inaugural Olympic gold, 2023 X Games silver and world silver medals in 2019 and 2023.
The Australian superstar clinched the inaugural Olympic gold in BMX freestyle at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, marking Australia's first gold in BMX and ending a drought in Olympic cycling golds since Anna Meares in 2012 and a 16-year gap for the men since 2004.
Reflecting on his Tokyo triumph, Martin said: "This is by far the biggest win in my career and I can't believe I can say I have an Olympic gold medal... I'll forever be an Olympian and I'll forever be a gold medallist. That's crazy to me."
But, despite his impressive resume, Martin is not the clear favorite heading into Paris...
Anthony Jeanjean: A name so good you have to say it twice
If there's a name that's set to echo through the streets of Paris during the BMX freestyle competition, it's Anthony Jeanjean.
The hometown hero, Jeanjean, is riding a wave of momentum into the Olympics. Seventh at Tokyo 2020, he has since soared to new heights on his bike, winning both legs of the Olympic Qualifier Series to be named the favourite for these Olympic Games.
His performance in Budapest, scoring a dazzling 93.40 points, secured his spot in Paris and ignited hopes among French fans. "I think it's going to be a great party of sport, with all the fans, all the Frenchies. Can't wait to ride in France, Place de la Concorde, with all the French guys. It's crazy," said Jeanjean.
The 2022 Urban Cycling World Championships bronze medallist and three-time European champion has his eyes firmly set on the top podium spot. Leading the world rankings, Jeanjean is poised to deliver a performance that could become a defining moment of the Paris Games.
Kieran Reilly: The British prodigy
Great Britain's hopes lie in Kieran Reilly, another name stirring excitement in the BMX community. The 2023 UCI Cycling world champion arrives in Paris with a string of accolades, including wins over seasoned competitors such as Martin and Rimu Nakamura.
Reilly's groundbreaking moment came in 2022 when he became the first rider ever to land a 'triple flair', three full backflips and a 180-degree rotation at the end.
At just 23, Reilly has already cemented himself as a trailblazer. Following his historic triple flair, he went on to claim silver at the European Championships and gold at the 2023 European Games in Poland. With a third-place finish at the Olympic Qualifier Series in Budapest, Reilly has shown he can perform under pressure.
As he gears up for his Olympic debut in Paris, Reilly is poised to make history once again. His innovative style makes him not only a strong competitor but also a rider with the potential to redefine the sport on the world’s biggest stage.
Kieran Reilly won both the European Games title and the World Championships in BMX Freestyle Park in 2023.
Wildcard and wild child Gustavo Oliveira
Looking for a show? Brazil’s Gustavo "Bala Loca" Oliveira is sure to deliver.
Known for his nickname, which translates to 'Crazy Bullet', Oliveira has a fearless style reflected in his daring stunts and high-speed manoeuvres that leave audiences in awe.
Oliveira's journey to Paris 2024 has been marked by impressive performances, including a top-10 finish at the World Championships and a standout showing at the Olympic Qualifier Series. The 21-year-old’s explosivity ensures that spectators are in for a thrilling show every time he takes to the park.
And never count out the Americans Marcus Christopher and Justin Dowell.
How to watch BMX freestyle cycling live at Paris 2024
The Place de la Concorde, with its historical grandeur, will transform into a modern arena of sport where riders like Martin, Jeanjean, Reilly, and Oliveira will push the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels.
BMX freestyle cycling is due to take place on 30 and 31 July during Paris 2024. Click here for a detailed schedule.
All the action from Paris 2024, including BMX freestyle, can be watched via media rights holders (MRHs).
MRHs include Nine in Australia, Globo in Brazil, CBC in Canada, CCTV in People's Republic of China, Fuji TV/NHK/Nippon TV/TBS/TV Asahi/TV Tokyo in Japan, SKY NZ in New Zealand, SuperSport in South Africa, NBC in the United States, and Discovery Eurosport across Europe, alongside France Télévisions in France, ARD/ZDF in Germany, and BBC Sport in the United Kingdom, among others.
Check listings in other regions for your local broadcaster.