[2] The event was won by Great Britain, the nation's first victory in the men's eight since 2000 and fourth overall (second to the United States' 12 wins).

[2] For the fourth consecutive Games, no nations made their debut in the event.

The competition consisted of two main rounds (semifinals and finals) as well as a repechage.

The competition format was adjusted slightly due to having 7 boats, rather than the typical 8, compete; no "B" final was held.

The winners of each heat qualified for the final, while the remainder went to the repechage.