The men's canoe sprint K-1 1,000 metres at the 2012 Olympic Games in London took place between 6 and 8 August at Eton Dorney.

The top five boats from each heat, and the fastest loser, advanced to the semifinals.

The top four boats in each semifinal advanced to the "A" final, and competed for medals.

The fastest four canoeists in each semifinal qualify for the 'A' final (medal race).

The slowest four canoeists in each semifinal qualify for the 'B' final (consolation race).