Thomas Barr announced his retirement from competitive athletics

Three-time Olympics athlete and European medalist Thomas Barr has announced his retirement from competitive athletics. Considered one of the all-time finest sprinters of Ireland, he won a historic bronze medal in the 400m hurdles at the 2018 European Athletics Championships, becoming the first Irish male sprinter to win a European outdoor medal in the 84-year history of the event.

In 2016, Thomas Barr produced a remarkable performance in the Olympic 400m hurdles final, finishing fourth in an incredible 47.97 sec, setting a new Irish record that still stands today. He was also the 2015 World University Champion and holds multiple Irish records in the 400m hurdles, including in the men’s, under-23 and under-20 categories. He won 12 national 400m hurdles titles during his career.

In 2024, his final year as an international athlete, he enjoyed groundbreaking success as part of the 4x400m medley relay team that became European champions in Rome and secured a bronze medal at the World Relays.

“I am grateful to all the people who have been part of my journey, especially my parents for their support and my coaches, Drew and Hayley. I have loved the sport since the day I joined Ferrybank AC as a young boy”, said Thomas Barr. “I have cherished every moment, from winning national championships to breaking Irish records and representing my country on the European and world stage. I will never forget finishing fourth at the Rio Olympics and winning bronze at the European Championships in the 400m hurdles. My final year has given me some magical moments. To be on the mixed relay team that won a world medal and secured victory at the European Championships was incredible”, added he.