At this year’s Silverstone Grand Prix there was a sporting fairy tale moment when three Brits, George Russell, Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris qualified for the race in first, second and third place. On the day, Hamilton went on to win but Max Verstappen spoiled the party by finishing in second. Needless to say any first, second and third placed finishers – from any country – in any sport, are exceptionally rare events. I can think of only six all British affairs writes David Little, a partner in our Corporate and Commercial department who increasingly handles Sports Law cases, too.
British athletes have delivered some truly extraordinary performances, not just in terms of victories but also by dominating podiums across a range of sports.
The 2011 UCI Road World Championships in Copenhagen was a landmark event for British cycling. Mark Cavendish, one of the fastest sprinters in the world, clinched the world champion title by edging out his competitors in a thrilling sprint finish. His teammates, Matt Goss and André Greipel, crossed the line closely behind, securing the silver and bronze medals respectively. This British 1-2-3 finish was not only a demonstration of Cavendish’s prowess but also of the strategic brilliance of the British team, who perfectly executed their plan to dominate the race. This achievement marked a significant moment for British cycling, which has since grown to become a powerhouse in the sport.
This one still brings a tear to my eye – the 1986 European Championships were a showcase of British middle-distance running supremacy. Steve Cram, already a world champion and a key figure in the golden era of British athletics, secured the gold in the men’s 800 meters with a powerful finish. His compatriots, Sebastian Coe, a double Olympic gold medallist, and Tom McKean, known for his speed and tactical acumen, followed in second and third place, respectively.
This clean sweep of the podium was emblematic of Britain’s dominance in middle-distance running during the 1980s, a period when British athletes were consistently among the best in the world. The sight of Cram, Coe, and McKean standing together on the podium remains an iconic image in British sports history.
Back to the Olympics, and Sydney 2000 witnessed an historic British moment in the men’s coxless four rowing event. The now legendary crew of Sir Steve Redgrave, sir Matthew Pinsent, Tim Foster, and James Cracknell delivered a flawless performance, securing the gold medal in a race that was fiercely contested until the final stroke. The second and third boats, also composed of British rowers, completed the podium sweep, underscoring the depth of talent in British rowing. This triumph was particularly significant as it marked Steve Redgrave’s fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal, a record that firmly established him as one of the greatest Olympians of all time. The achievement also highlighted the meticulous preparation and teamwork that are the hallmarks of British rowing.
At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, British sailors continued their tradition of excellence, particularly in the Finn class. Sir Ben Ainslie, already a multiple Olympic champion, showcased his tactical brilliance and resilience by winning the gold medal, his third consecutive Olympic gold in this class. His compatriots Giles Scott and Ed Wright secured the silver and bronze, completing the podium sweep. This moment was a testament to the UK’s dominance in sailing, with Ainslie’s success setting the stage for his later involvement in the prestigious America’s Cup. The Finn class results highlighted the robust training programs and strategic insights that have kept British sailing at the forefront of the sport.
The 2012 London Olympics were a showcase of British equestrian talent, particularly in the team dressage event. The British team, featuring Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Hester, and Laura Bechtolsheimer, not only clinched the gold medal but also saw individual success, with Dujardin and Hester finishing first and second in the individual dressage event, while Bechtolsheimer took bronze. This clean sweep highlighted the strength of British dressage on the world stage. It’s such a shame Dujardin’s has had to subsequently withdraw from the Paris Olympics in the light of this month’s damning video evidence that she pushed her horses too hard.
As we started with Formula One my last example is also from the grid – the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix was a memorable event for British motorsport. Damon Hill, driving for Williams, led a British 1-2-3 finish with a commanding performance. Following him were David Coulthard and Johnny Herbert, who secured second and third places, respectively. This rare feat of three British drivers on the podium underscored a period of competitive success and depth in British motorsport, particularly in Formula 1.
No other country has since delivered a one, two, three at the checkered flag.
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David Little is a Partner at Bishop & Sewell in our expert Corporate & Commercial team. If you would like to contact him, please quote Ref CB487 on either 07968 027343 or, 020 7631 4141 or email: company@bishopandsewell.co.uk.
The above is accurate as at 26 July 2024. The information above may be subject to change.
The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
