Canoeing at the 1976 Summer Olympics – Men's K-1 500 metres

The men's K-1 500 metres event was an individual kayaking event conducted as part of the Canoeing at the 1976 Summer Olympics program. This event made its debut at these games.

Heats
The 18 competitors first raced in three heats on July 28. The top three finishers from each of the heats advanced directly to the semifinals while the rest competed in the repechages.

Repechages
Taking place on July 28, the top three finishers from each repechage advanced to the semifinals.

Semifinals
The top three finishers in each of the three semifinals (raced on July 30) advanced to the final.

Final
The final was held on July 30.