David Weir retires from Paralympics after missing out on T54 marathon medal

Wheelchair racer David Weir announced his retirement from Paralympic competition after finishing fifth in the men’s T54 marathon in Paris.

The 45-year-old won six Paralympic gold medals, including four at London 2012, having made his debut aged 17 at Atlanta in 1996.

“It was quite emotional at the end because this will be my last race for GB,” said Weir after posting a time of one hour, 33 minutes and 27 seconds.

“I’ll still do the major marathons, I still enjoy doing them, but it’ll be my last international. My body just couldn’t cope with it today. It’s an age thing, I was the oldest in the field.

“I am still highly competitive and still trying to beat Daniel (Romanchuk, 26-year-old American athlete who finished fourth) who is half my age, I could be his dad! I’m still doing all right. I gave it my all today.”

British athlete Eden Rainbow-Cooper did not finish the women’s T54 marathon.