The Men's coxless pair competition at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London took place are at Dorney Lake which, for the purposes of the Games venue, is officially termed Eton Dorney.

[1][2] The format of the competition was determined by how many boats are competing as at the entry deadline at the beginning of July.

All other boats progress to the repechage round, which offers a second chance to qualify for the semi-finals.

The best three boats in each of the two semi-finals qualify for final A, which determines places 1–6 (including the medals).

Unsuccessful boats from semi-finals A/B go forward to final B, which determines places 7–12.