L’EFFICIENZA DELLE STAFFETTE 4×100 IN ATLETICA LEGGERA

This study analyses the men’s 4×100 m Olympic finals from 1996 to 2024 using an integrated model combining an exponential function for the acceleration phase, a third-degree polynomial for velocity beyond 100 m, and a penalty factor for curve sections. Potential times and relative efficiencies were estimated and compared with actual race performances. Results show a progressive improvement in absolute times alongside a substantial stability in efficiency, with mean values ranging between 0.98 and 0.99 and no significant differences across Olympic editions. The average margin for improvement is around half a second, which at sprint relay speeds corresponds to more than five meters, with clear competitive implications. These findings suggest that performance gains are mainly attributable to faster individual athletes and improved technical preparation rather than to an increase in the relative efficiency of the relay.