Germany competed at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland. 205 competitors, 173 men and 32 women, took part in 123 events in 18 sports.
Germany had not been invited to the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, Great Britain because of their role in World War II, and because their NOC restored in 1947 did not represent a recognized state yet, which was founded in 1949. Germany took part in the 1952 Winter Olympics, with the GDR declining to cooperate and form a United German team as required by the IOC, joining only in 1956 and later. On the other hand, the French-occupied Saar protectorate had to send a separate team, but could join for 1956. As a result, the team for the 1952 Summer Games was de facto representing West Germany.
This event marked the first time, and as of the 2024 Summer Olympics only time, Germany failed to win a gold medal in a Summer Olympics they competed in. As of the 2024 Summer Olympics, Germany's 24 medals is the highest number of total medals won at an Olympic Games without winning a gold medal.
Men's Individual Road Race (190.4 km)
Men's 1000 m Sprint Scratch Race
Nine fencers, eight men and one woman, represented Germany in 1952.
Three male pentathletes represented Germany in 1952.
Germany had 21 male rowers participate in five out of seven rowing events in 1952.
Six shooters represented Germany in 1952.
<small>Ranks given are within the heat.</small>
<small>Ranks given are within the heat.</small>