The nation was represented by a delegation of six competitors, who took part in three sports but failed to win a medal.

The Portuguese debut participation was marked by the death of flag bearer Francisco Lázaro, who succumbed to electrolytic imbalance after the marathon race.

4 athletes represented Portugal in the nation's Olympic debut.

Lázaro collapsed during the marathon due to his use of wax to prevent sweating; he died the next morning.

A single fencer represented Portugal in that nation's Olympic debut.