[1] The 5000 metres was a sprint-style race, though considerably longer than modern sprints.

The time limit for the race was 9 minutes, 25 seconds.

The competition was conducted in two rounds (semifinals and a final).

The winning cyclist in each semifinal advanced to the final, so long as the time limit was not exceeded.

Demangel had finished first by inches, but was disqualified for fouling.