When it comes to the Summer Olympics there’s almost one certainly, the Americans finishing
first in the medal count. The United States have topped the standings in 7 straight Summer
Games. The last time they didn’t, was in 1992 in Barcelona when the United Team, a joint team
of twelve of the fifteen former Soviet republics, finished ahead of the U.S. While the Americans
are heavy favorites, can China, or even the hosts, France dethrone them? We dive in to find
out.
USA (-2000)
As usual, the United States will continue its dominance in several disciplines including track and
field. 100m World Champion Sha’Carri Richardson will be the marquee athlete for Team USA,
along with Noah Lyles on the men’s side. And don’t forget the relay teams where the Americans
are known to hit the podium. Gymnastics, Simone Biles will look to retire with another gold
medal. And the Americans should easily dominate in the pool and have a big haul in swimming.
They are big favorites to win gold in both men and women’s basketball among other team sports
too. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see the U.S. come away with 120 total medals, and hover
around 40 gold medals.
CHINA (+1000)
Four years ago, China finished 25 total medals behind the U.S. in Tokyo, but won 38 gold
medals to the Americans 39. The Chinese are determined to close that gap in Paris, and try to
overtake the favorites. China is expected to do well in several sports, from diving, swimming
and weightlifting, to table tennis, and gymnastics. China boasts top-three athletes in each
discipline, proving they are stacked and plan to give the U.S. everything it can handle. If any
country has a chance to dethrone the United States it’s China, but can they do enough to take
that top spot?
FRANCE (+10000)
While the hosts typically do well at their own Games, the chances of France winning the most
medals reflect the current odds. In the last two Summer Games, the French have finished
seventh and eighth respectively. France is poised for its best performance in over a century,
projected to triple its gold count from four years ago, and compete in more sports than ever. But
even that won’t be enough to finish atop the standings. France’s best showing came in 1900, in
Paris, where they took home 27 gold medals, and 102 total medals.
Odds To Win Most Medals
USA -2000
China +1000
Great Britain +5000
Japan +5000
France +10000
Odds To Win Most Gold Medals
USA -600
China +400
France +5000
Great Britain +10000
Japan +10000