Paris 2024 Olympics: Gabby Thomas and Sha'Carri Richardson reach 4x100m final as Jamaica book spot without Shericka Jackson

The Paris 2024 Olympics have witnessed the rise of American sprinting superstars Gabby Thomas and Sha'Carri Richardson led their nation to a stunning victory in the women's 4x100m relay heats.

Sha’Carri Richardson who was beaten in the 100m final and the USA will join their men's counterparts who posted the fastest time in the final on Friday.

Notably, the African powerhouses were nowhere to be seen in the relay heats, with South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya all failing to secure a spot in the final.

The continent's fans will be left disappointed as their medal hopes have been dashed.

Richardson, the silver medalist in the individual 100m, produced an impressive anchor leg to guide the United States to the fastest time of the day at 41.94 seconds.

Joined by 200m Olympic champion Gabrielle Thomas, Melissa Jefferson and Twanisha Terry, the American quartet showcased their dominance.

Reigning Olympic champions Jamaica, who were missing their veteran stars Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson, managed to qualify fifth-fastest with a season-best time of 42.35 seconds.

The Jamaican women, known for their explosive 4x100m relay teams, made amend for their men’s colleagues who failed to make it to the final after a bungled final changeover.

Great Britain, the reigning Olympic and world bronze medalists, posted the second-fastest time of 42.03 seconds, while hosts France secured third place in 42.13 seconds.

Germany (42.15) and Switzerland (42.38) also booked their spots in the final, which is set to be a thrilling affair.

The stage is now set for a captivating final on Friday, where the world's premier sprinting nations will battle it out for the coveted 4x100m relay gold medal.

1. USA: 41.94

2. Great Britain: 42.03

3. France: 42.13

4. Germany: 42.15

5. Jamaica: 42.35

6. Switzerland: 42.38

7. Canada: 42.50

8. Netherlands: 42.64