<p class="MsoNormal">The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has&nbsp;come as a historic decision in the world of sports. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings and as a result, the entire sporting calendar has been left shattered. The decision to postpone the Games by a year is likely to torment Japan’s economy, which has already taken a hit due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. But how much financial hit Japan will take after postponing the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to 2021?</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>How much has Japan invested?</strong></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">At the end of 2019, the organisers of the Games had estimated a total cost to be around 1.35 trillion Japanese Yen ($12.6 billion). The investment is divided between Tokyo, Japanese organizing committee and the central government, who have contributed 597 billion, 603 billion and 150 billion Yen respectively.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the actual cost for Japan has, as per an audit report, stands approximately around 1.06 trillion Yen, which is 10 times the budget. This spending by the national government comes from the bid in 2013 until 2018, which makes the numbers even more staggering.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Furthermore, Japanese businesses have also splashed in money for sponsorship while pouring a record 348 billion Yen ($3.3 billion). Notably, the figure doesn’t include partnership deals signed between major companies and IOC for rights to sponsor several Games. Among those are giants including Japan's Toyota, Bridgestone and Panasonic.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>How the postponement will affect Japan's economy?</strong></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">As per Capital Economics, Japan’s economy is likely to take a major hit because most of the spending has already happened for the Tokyo Olympics 2020, meaning the effects of outlays, constructions of new sporting venues, have already been factored into GDP in recent years.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the postponement of Games could majorly drag down tourism industry, which is already under pressure after a widely-debated sales tax hike in 2019 and with the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcing a lockdown in many countries, it remains to be seen how many people would want to visit Tokyo for the Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-concrete-problem-olympic-delay-spells-limbo-on-athletes-village-288379">A concrete problem: Olympic delay spells limbo on Athletes' Village</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The COVID-19 pandemic has already taken Japan towards recession as the GDP has contracted 1.8 per cent in the October-December quarter.<br />
Research firm Fitch on Monday revised its 2020 growth forecast for Japan to -1.1 per cent from -0.2 per cent as it reflected risks to consumption, tourism and exports industry being hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic. It further stated the postponement of the Games might worsen the situation even more and “could impact GDP between 0.5 and 0.8 percentage point to our forecast."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><img alt="Tokyo 2020 Olympics postponed to 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fba8486-75e0-4f2e-af4e-72c1280336ce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1PS34A.jpg" /></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>What about ticket-holders?</strong></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The effect, the postponement of the Games, on spending from foreign spectators which was estimated to be 240 billion yen ($2.28 billion) is unclear as of now. Furthermore, a staggering 4.5 million tickets have already been sold in Japan with an estimated 7.8 million to be sold overall. But how the postponement will affect the already sold tickets is not clear yet.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Economists at SMBC Nikko Securities on Tuesday said that delaying the Games would reduce the impact Japan’s GDP this year by some $6 billion. However, they added, the amount would be recovered when the Games are eventually held, effectively cancelling out the losses.&nbsp;<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has come as a historic decision in the world of sports.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan agreeing to postpone the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to not later than the summer of 2021 has come as a historic decision in the world of sports. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings and as a result, the entire sporting calendar has been left shattered. The decision to postpone the Games by a year is likely to torment Japan’s economy, which has already taken a hit due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. But how much financial hit Japan will take after postponing the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to 2021? How much has Japan invested? At the end of 2019, the organisers of the Games had estimated a total cost to be around 1.35 trillion Japanese Yen ($12.6 billion). The investment is divided between Tokyo, Japanese organizing committee and the central government, who have contributed 597 billion, 603 billion and 150 billion Yen respectively. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' However, the actual cost for Japan has, as per an audit report, stands approximately around 1.06 trillion Yen, which is 10 times the budget. This spending by the national government comes from the bid in 2013 until 2018, which makes the numbers even more staggering. Furthermore, Japanese businesses have also splashed in money for sponsorship while pouring a record 348 billion Yen ($3.3 billion). Notably, the figure doesn’t include partnership deals signed between major companies and IOC for rights to sponsor several Games. Among those are giants including Japan's Toyota, Bridgestone and Panasonic. How the postponement will affect Japan's economy? As per Capital Economics, Japan’s economy is likely to take a major hit because most of the spending has already happened for the Tokyo Olympics 2020, meaning the effects of outlays, constructions of new sporting venues, have already been factored into GDP in recent years. However, the postponement of Games could majorly drag down tourism industry, which is already under pressure after a widely-debated sales tax hike in 2019 and with the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcing a lockdown in many countries, it remains to be seen how many people would want to visit Tokyo for the Olympics. ALSO READ: A concrete problem: Olympic delay spells limbo on Athletes' Village The COVID-19 pandemic has already taken Japan towards recession as the GDP has contracted 1.8 per cent in the October-December quarter. Research firm Fitch on Monday revised its 2020 growth forecast for Japan to -1.1 per cent from -0.2 per cent as it reflected risks to consumption, tourism and exports industry being hit by the novel coronavirus pandemic. It further stated the postponement of the Games might worsen the situation even more and “could impact GDP between 0.5 and 0.8 percentage point to our forecast." What about ticket-holders? The effect, the postponement of the Games, on spending from foreign spectators which was estimated to be 240 billion yen ($2.28 billion) is unclear as of now. Furthermore, a staggering 4.5 million tickets have already been sold in Japan with an estimated 7.8 million to be sold overall. But how the postponement will affect the already sold tickets is not clear yet. Economists at SMBC Nikko Securities on Tuesday said that delaying the Games would reduce the impact Japan’s GDP this year by some $6 billion. However, they added, the amount would be recovered when the Games are eventually held, effectively cancelling out the losses.

COVID-19 hits Olympics: What could 2020 Tokyo Games postponement cost Japan?

<p>The International Olympic Committee came under pressure to speed up its decision about postponing the Tokyo Games on Tuesday as athletes criticised the four-week deadline and the United States joined calls to delay the competition.</p>

<p>After Canada and Australia withdrew their teams, with the world hunkering down for the coronavirus pandemic, the US Olympic committee said postponement was the best way forward.</p>

<p>A growing group of national Olympic committees and sports bodies including World Athletics have called for the Games, set to start on July 24, to be pushed back, an outcome that now appears inevitable.</p>

<p>IOC officials are studying a postponement, among other options, but still believe a decision would be "premature" four months from the scheduled start. They will make an announcement within four weeks.</p>

<p>"My interpretation of the IOC's communications is they don't want to cancel, and they don't think they can continue with the July 24 date," senior IOC official Dick Pound told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So you're looking at the 'P' word -- postponement."</p>

<p>The US statement came after a survey of 1,780 US athletes found an overwhelming majority, 68 percent, backed postponement.</p>

<p>The virus lockdown has shut down competition, including Olympic qualifiers, and made training not just difficult but also dangerous, as athletes risk contracting or spreading COVID-19.</p>

<h2>- 'Unacceptable, irresponsible' -</h2>

<p>Several countries have imposed strict stay-at-home orders and international travel has been drastically curtailed as worldwide deaths surge past 16,500 and confirmed cases surpass 378,000.</p>

<p>"Our most important conclusion from this broad athlete response is that even if the current significant health concerns could be alleviated by late summer, the enormous disruptions to the training environment, doping controls and qualification process can't be overcome in a satisfactory manner," the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee said.</p>

<p>USA Gymnastics also said it was "adding our voice to the chorus advocating for postponement", after USA Swimming and USA Track and Field had already urged the US Olympic committee to press for a delay.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, British Olympic Association chairman Hugh Robertson told Sky Sports News: "If the virus continues as predicted by the government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team."&nbsp;</p>

<p>With opposition to the July start reaching deafening levels, athletes questioned why the IOC needed weeks to come to a decision. The Olympic torch relay is due to start in Japan on Thursday.</p>

<p>"Such a response is unacceptable, irresponsible, and once again ignores the rights of athletes," Global Athlete, an organisation which aims to speak for sports competitors, said in a statement.</p>

<p>British cyclist Callum Skinner strongly criticised IOC president Thomas Bach, accusing him of placing his own interests first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Bach's stubbornness and arrogance has spectacularly failed in this instance and he has weakened the Olympic movement," Skinner wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p>"This isn't the first time he has put his own motives above the athletes and the movement."</p>

<h2>- 'Dither and delay' -</h2>

<p>British hurdler Dai Greene said the "dither and delay" was "obscene" while Ed Warner, the chairman-designate of British wheelchair rugby, said the IOC had misjudged the mood.</p>

<p>"The IOC has said it will make a decision in four weeks," he told the Guardian. "It hasn't got that long. It probably has only got four days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The right thing for the IOC to do is to announce it will postpone the Games immediately -– and then use the next couple of weeks to decide when it will be. Athletes have led the way on this and the IOC have trailed far behind them. That has to change."</p>

<p>World Athletics said it was prepared to shift its world championships, scheduled for August 6-15 next year in Oregon, to accommodate a potential Olympics next summer, seen as the most likely option.</p>

<p>But experts warn shifting the Tokyo Games, which are seven years in the planning and have a price tag of $12.6 billion, is no simple matter.</p>

<p>"It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," Michael Payne, the IOC's former head of marketing, told AFP.</p>


The International Olympic Committee came under pressure to speed up its decision about postponing the Tokyo Games on Tuesday as athletes criticised the four-week deadline and the United States joined calls to delay the competition.

The International Olympic Committee came under pressure to speed up its decision about postponing the Tokyo Games on Tuesday as athletes criticised the four-week deadline and the United States joined calls to delay the competition. After Canada and Australia withdrew their teams, with the world hunkering down for the coronavirus pandemic, the US Olympic committee said postponement was the best way forward. A growing group of national Olympic committees and sports bodies including World Athletics have called for the Games, set to start on July 24, to be pushed back, an outcome that now appears inevitable. IOC officials are studying a postponement, among other options, but still believe a decision would be "premature" four months from the scheduled start. They will make an announcement within four weeks. "My interpretation of the IOC's communications is they don't want to cancel, and they don't think they can continue with the July 24 date," senior IOC official Dick Pound told AFP. "So you're looking at the 'P' word -- postponement." The US statement came after a survey of 1,780 US athletes found an overwhelming majority, 68 percent, backed postponement. The virus lockdown has shut down competition, including Olympic qualifiers, and made training not just difficult but also dangerous, as athletes risk contracting or spreading COVID-19. - 'Unacceptable, irresponsible' - Several countries have imposed strict stay-at-home orders and international travel has been drastically curtailed as worldwide deaths surge past 16,500 and confirmed cases surpass 378,000. "Our most important conclusion from this broad athlete response is that even if the current significant health concerns could be alleviated by late summer, the enormous disruptions to the training environment, doping controls and qualification process can't be overcome in a satisfactory manner," the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee said. USA Gymnastics also said it was "adding our voice to the chorus advocating for postponement", after USA Swimming and USA Track and Field had already urged the US Olympic committee to press for a delay. Meanwhile, British Olympic Association chairman Hugh Robertson told Sky Sports News: "If the virus continues as predicted by the government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team." With opposition to the July start reaching deafening levels, athletes questioned why the IOC needed weeks to come to a decision. The Olympic torch relay is due to start in Japan on Thursday. "Such a response is unacceptable, irresponsible, and once again ignores the rights of athletes," Global Athlete, an organisation which aims to speak for sports competitors, said in a statement. British cyclist Callum Skinner strongly criticised IOC president Thomas Bach, accusing him of placing his own interests first. "Bach's stubbornness and arrogance has spectacularly failed in this instance and he has weakened the Olympic movement," Skinner wrote on Twitter. "This isn't the first time he has put his own motives above the athletes and the movement." - 'Dither and delay' - British hurdler Dai Greene said the "dither and delay" was "obscene" while Ed Warner, the chairman-designate of British wheelchair rugby, said the IOC had misjudged the mood. "The IOC has said it will make a decision in four weeks," he told the Guardian. "It hasn't got that long. It probably has only got four days. "The right thing for the IOC to do is to announce it will postpone the Games immediately -– and then use the next couple of weeks to decide when it will be. Athletes have led the way on this and the IOC have trailed far behind them. That has to change." World Athletics said it was prepared to shift its world championships, scheduled for August 6-15 next year in Oregon, to accommodate a potential Olympics next summer, seen as the most likely option. But experts warn shifting the Tokyo Games, which are seven years in the planning and have a price tag of $12.6 billion, is no simple matter. "It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," Michael Payne, the IOC's former head of marketing, told AFP.

IOC urged to make quick Olympic decision as US backs postponement

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19. The tally of confirmed cases for novel coronavirus crossed the 500-mark in India with over 30 new cases being reported from across the country on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“From 12 AM tonight there will be a complete lockdown across the country. In the view of the current situation, the nationwide complete lockdown will be in place for 21 days — three weeks. If we are not able to manage the upcoming 21 days of nationwide complete lockdown, we will be pushed back 21 years,” PM Modi said on Tuesday evening.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-opens-up-on-fate-of-ipl-2020-says-cant-say-anything-at-the-moment-288269">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment'</a></strong></p>

<p>“Today India is at the stage where our actions today, will decide that to what extent we can bring down the impact of this disaster. This is the time to strengthen our resolve again and again,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reactions from sporting world started to pour in as soon as PM Modi announced that India will be under complete lockdown for three weeks starting from midnight. From Ravichandran Ashwin, who changed his Twitter handle to ‘lets stay indoors India’ to Virat Kohli, Indian sportspersons expressed their thoughts while lauding PM Modi’s move to enforce complete lockdown in a bid curb the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">&nbsp;IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Here's how some of the athletes&nbsp;reacted:</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji just announced, the whole country is going into a lockdown starting midnight today for the next 21 days. My request will remain the same, PLEASE STAY AT HOME. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SocialDistancing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SocialDistancing</a> is the only cure for Covid 19.</p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1242478162723786753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">3 weeks it is ... let’s stay indoors India. I repeat the consequences of irresponsible community behaviour over the next 3 weeks could cost us 2 decades. Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji. Now let’s follow instructions rather than moaning and giving our own opinions. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirusindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirusindia</a></p>
— lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1242466620431192065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As advised by our honourable PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji I urge each and everyone to stay at home and do your part to help curb the pandemic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a></p>
— cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1242471789420142592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All those who asked what can I do for my country...<br />
This is the time to show your loyalty! Listen to our PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and STAY INDOORS!<br />
If we get through the next 21 days, WE WIN!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1242468400607133698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Please Understand the gravity of the situation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> and stay healthy. As advised by our Honourable PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji Let us follow a complete lockdown.</p>
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1242474115795013638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These 21 days are very important in the history of our nation &amp; each one of us can play our part by just staying at our homes and maintaining distance from people. Please adhere to it strictly and we shall overcome this soon <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1242476582754648069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India, stay safe at home and do your bit to curb this pandemic. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAtHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAtHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://t.co/xWjgLg83PT">pic.twitter.com/xWjgLg83PT</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from Home🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1242476079291314176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">(Locked) Down, but not out.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/JAYfg8EauC">pic.twitter.com/JAYfg8EauC</a></p>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1242466685744902144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Social distancing is extremely critical for each and everyone of us to follow for the next 21 days. Please stay at home &amp; wash your hands regularly, and let’s break the chain. Please don’t panic about essentials, the central &amp; state governments will ensure it<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1242479373438971916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the sporting calendar has been left shattered with every major tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. The biggest news in the sporting world came on Tuesday with the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting postponed to 2021.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown in India for three weeks starting from 12 am on March 25 due to the rapid rise in the number of positive cases of COVID-19. The tally of confirmed cases for novel coronavirus crossed the 500-mark in India with over 30 new cases being reported from across the country on Tuesday. “From 12 AM tonight there will be a complete lockdown across the country. In the view of the current situation, the nationwide complete lockdown will be in place for 21 days — three weeks. If we are not able to manage the upcoming 21 days of nationwide complete lockdown, we will be pushed back 21 years,” PM Modi said on Tuesday evening. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment' “Today India is at the stage where our actions today, will decide that to what extent we can bring down the impact of this disaster. This is the time to strengthen our resolve again and again,” he added. Reactions from sporting world started to pour in as soon as PM Modi announced that India will be under complete lockdown for three weeks starting from midnight. From Ravichandran Ashwin, who changed his Twitter handle to ‘lets stay indoors India’ to Virat Kohli, Indian sportspersons expressed their thoughts while lauding PM Modi’s move to enforce complete lockdown in a bid curb the spread of COVID-19. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' Here's how some of the athletes reacted: As our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri @NarendraModi ji just announced, the whole country is going into a lockdown starting midnight today for the next 21 days. My request will remain the same, PLEASE STAY AT HOME. #SocialDistancing is the only cure for Covid 19. — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 24, 2020 × 3 weeks it is ... let’s stay indoors India. I repeat the consequences of irresponsible community behaviour over the next 3 weeks could cost us 2 decades. Well done @narendramodi ji. Now let’s follow instructions rather than moaning and giving our own opinions. #coronavirusindia — lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) March 24, 2020 × As advised by our honourable PM Shri @narendramodi ji I urge each and everyone to stay at home and do your part to help curb the pandemic #StayHome #StaySafe #IndiaFightsCorona — cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) March 24, 2020 × All those who asked what can I do for my country... This is the time to show your loyalty! Listen to our PM @narendramodi ji and STAY INDOORS! If we get through the next 21 days, WE WIN!! #IndiaFightsCorona — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 24, 2020 × Please Understand the gravity of the situation. #IndiaFightsCorona #StayHomeStaySafe and stay healthy. As advised by our Honourable PM @narendramodi Ji Let us follow a complete lockdown. — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) March 24, 2020 × These 21 days are very important in the history of our nation & each one of us can play our part by just staying at our homes and maintaining distance from people. Please adhere to it strictly and we shall overcome this soon #CoronavirusLockdown — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) March 24, 2020 × India, stay safe at home and do your bit to curb this pandemic. @PMOIndia @narendramodi #CoronavirusLockdown #StayAtHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/xWjgLg83PT — Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from Home🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) March 24, 2020 × (Locked) Down, but not out.#CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/JAYfg8EauC — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 24, 2020 × Social distancing is extremely critical for each and everyone of us to follow for the next 21 days. Please stay at home & wash your hands regularly, and let’s break the chain. Please don’t panic about essentials, the central & state governments will ensure it#IndiaFightsCorona — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) March 24, 2020 × Moreover, the sporting calendar has been left shattered with every major tournaments getting either cancelled or postponed. The biggest news in the sporting world came on Tuesday with the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting postponed to 2021.

'Let's stay indoors India' - From Kohli to Ashwin, sports fraternity reacts as PM Narendra Modi announces complete lockdown for 21 days

<p>In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has welcomed the joint decision to postpone the Games by one year as the IOA announced that it would be holding meetings with athletes, NSFs, sponsors to revise the preparations for the quadrennial event. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said that the decision to delay the Games will relieve Indian athletes of worries of having to train during the epidemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lockdown is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations. This decision today, relieves our athletes of worries of having to train now during the epidemic," IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-japan-agree-to-postpone-2020-tokyo-olympics-by-one-year-to-be-held-no-later-than-summer-of-2021-288259">IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'</a></strong></p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a>. Soon after the lock down is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations." <a href="https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF">https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF</a></p>
— NOC India (@WeAreTeamIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia/status/1242446665312694272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Furthermore, the Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from March 26 has been suspended. "The Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from 26th (March), will not start," Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231">Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, a joint statement was issued after the meeting between Bach and Abe as the pair said that based on the current information by the World Health Organization, the Tokyo Games "must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community".</p>

<p>"The leaders agreed that the Olympic Games in Tokyo could stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times and that the Olympic flame could become the light at the end of the tunnel in which the world finds itself at present.</p>

<p>"Therefore, it was agreed that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan. It was also agreed that the Games will keep the name Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020," the statement concluded.</p>


In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021.

In what comes as a landmark piece of news, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to no later than the summer of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Games were scheduled to start from July 24 but after discussions with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the historic decision was taken to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has welcomed the joint decision to postpone the Games by one year as the IOA announced that it would be holding meetings with athletes, NSFs, sponsors to revise the preparations for the quadrennial event. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said that the decision to delay the Games will relieve Indian athletes of worries of having to train during the epidemic. "IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lockdown is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations. This decision today, relieves our athletes of worries of having to train now during the epidemic," IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a statement. ALSO READ: IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021' "IOA welcomes the decision of IOC and #Tokyo2020. Soon after the lock down is over, IOA would be holding meetings with Athletes, NSFs, Sponsors, etc. to revise preparations." https://t.co/ANr5chtlnF — NOC India (@WeAreTeamIndia) March 24, 2020 × Furthermore, the Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from March 26 has been suspended. "The Olympic torch relay, which was scheduled to start from 26th (March), will not start," Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori told reporters. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history Earlier on Tuesday, a joint statement was issued after the meeting between Bach and Abe as the pair said that based on the current information by the World Health Organization, the Tokyo Games "must be rescheduled to a date beyond 2020 but not later than summer 2021, to safeguard the health of the athletes, everybody involved in the Olympic Games and the international community". "The leaders agreed that the Olympic Games in Tokyo could stand as a beacon of hope to the world during these troubled times and that the Olympic flame could become the light at the end of the tunnel in which the world finds itself at present. "Therefore, it was agreed that the Olympic flame will stay in Japan. It was also agreed that the Games will keep the name Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020," the statement concluded.

'This decision relieves our athletes of worries' - IOA welcomes decision to postpone Tokyo Olympics to 2021

<p class="MsoNormal">The Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe has proposed the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year in a conference call with Games’ chiefs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The novel coronavirus has left the entire sporting calendar shattered and the biggest blow has been dealt to the organizing committee of Tokyo Olympics as far as sporting events as concerned. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">There have been rising concerns about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics going as planned amid the COVID-19 pandemic with Canada, Australia and Great Britain threatening to pull out of the Games if they were to be held in 2020, as originally planned. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are now set to be held in the summer of 2021 as Japanese PM Abe told the IOC that his nation would be delaying the quadrennial event for 12 months.&nbsp;Abe made the announcement during a conference call with IOC president Thomas Bach and Organising Committee chief Yoshiro Mori.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231"><strong>Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games</strong></a> <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I proposed to postpone for about a year and president Bach responded with 100 percent agreement," Shinzo Abe told reporters referring to Thomas Bach, head of the IOC.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stay-home-keep-positive-frame-of-mind-bai-to-players-officials-288226"><strong>Stay home, keep positive frame of mind: BAI to players, officials</strong></a></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had given themselves a four-week deadline to take a final call on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. However, with participating nations and some top former and current athletes raising their concerns publicly, the announcement could be made official soon.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Earlier, a&nbsp;highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Richard Pound, had&nbsp;confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic</p>


The Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe has proposed the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year in a conference call with Games’ chiefs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe has proposed the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year in a conference call with Games’ chiefs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The novel coronavirus has left the entire sporting calendar shattered and the biggest blow has been dealt to the organizing committee of Tokyo Olympics as far as sporting events as concerned. There have been rising concerns about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics going as planned amid the COVID-19 pandemic with Canada, Australia and Great Britain threatening to pull out of the Games if they were to be held in 2020, as originally planned. However, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are now set to be held in the summer of 2021 as Japanese PM Abe told the IOC that his nation would be delaying the quadrennial event for 12 months. Abe made the announcement during a conference call with IOC president Thomas Bach and Organising Committee chief Yoshiro Mori. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games "I proposed to postpone for about a year and president Bach responded with 100 percent agreement," Shinzo Abe told reporters referring to Thomas Bach, head of the IOC. ALSO READ: Stay home, keep positive frame of mind: BAI to players, officials Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had given themselves a four-week deadline to take a final call on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. However, with participating nations and some top former and current athletes raising their concerns publicly, the announcement could be made official soon. Earlier, a highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Richard Pound, had confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic

IOC, Japan agree to postpone 2020 Tokyo Olympics by one year, to be held 'no later than summer of 2021'

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">The Board of Control for BCCI (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday said that he ‘can’t say anything’ about the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 amid the nationwide lockdown as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to deteriorate with each passing day.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">The BCCI had suspended the IPL from March 29 to April 15 after the Indian government suspended all visas, barring diplomatic and employment, which made it impossible for foreign players to participate in the cash-rich tournament. Furthermore, the government suspended all international and domestic flights in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"I can't say anything at the moment. We are at the same place where we were on the day we postponed. Nothing has changed in the last 10 days. So, I don't have an answer to it. Status quo remains," Ganguly told PTI on Tuesday.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">The former Indian skipper also ruled out the possibility of holding IPL 2020 later in the year given the situation surrounding the novel coronavirus improves in the coming months.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-set-to-move-to-2021-as-japan-pm-shinzo-abe-proposes-one-year-delay-288259">Tokyo Olympics set to move to 2021 as Japan PM Shinzo Abe proposes one-year delay</a></strong></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"You can't plan anything. The FTP is scheduled. It's there and you can't change the FTP. All around the world, cricket and more so sports have stopped," he said.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">Ganguly also expressed his doubts on whether the losses that all stakeholders will suffer could be covered by insurance.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"I am not sure whether you can get insurance money. Because this is a government lockdown. I am not sure whether a government lockdown is covered by insurance or not.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"We will have to see. We have not assessed all these things. At this point of time, it is very difficult for me to give any concrete answer," Ganguly said.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">BCCI, also the world’s richest cricket board, has not yet provided any donations to fight back against the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Ganguly said that he will have a discussion with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah to chalk out the best options.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"I haven't had a discussion with Jay. Let's see. We will assess the situation, follow directives and see what happens," he said.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"If the government asks us, we will certainly hand over the facility. Anything that is need of the hour, we will do it. There is absolutely no problem," he asserted.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-set-to-have-preliminary-discussions-on-icc-t20-world-cup-on-march-29-as-covid-19-continues-to-impact-global-sports-288248">ICC set to have preliminary discussions on ICC T20 World Cup on March 29 as COVID-19 continues to impact global sports</a></strong></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">The BCCI president is of the view that complete lockdown is the best possible option at the current moment while adding whatever advisory the government and health ministry is issuing, everyone will have to follow it.&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 8pt">"I think this is the best option at the current moment. Certain things are beyond anybody's control. Whatever directives that the government and ministry of health give us, we have to follow. That's the case all over the world. I don't know after how many years I am home on weekdays. Even during my busy schedule, I have had Sundays off but this is so different," he said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for BCCI (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday said that he ‘can’t say anything’ about the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 amid the nationwide lockdown as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to deteriorate with each passing day.

The Board of Control for BCCI (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday said that he ‘can’t say anything’ about the fate of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 amid the nationwide lockdown as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to deteriorate with each passing day. The BCCI had suspended the IPL from March 29 to April 15 after the Indian government suspended all visas, barring diplomatic and employment, which made it impossible for foreign players to participate in the cash-rich tournament. Furthermore, the government suspended all international and domestic flights in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. "I can't say anything at the moment. We are at the same place where we were on the day we postponed. Nothing has changed in the last 10 days. So, I don't have an answer to it. Status quo remains," Ganguly told PTI on Tuesday. The former Indian skipper also ruled out the possibility of holding IPL 2020 later in the year given the situation surrounding the novel coronavirus improves in the coming months. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics set to move to 2021 as Japan PM Shinzo Abe proposes one-year delay "You can't plan anything. The FTP is scheduled. It's there and you can't change the FTP. All around the world, cricket and more so sports have stopped," he said. Ganguly also expressed his doubts on whether the losses that all stakeholders will suffer could be covered by insurance. "I am not sure whether you can get insurance money. Because this is a government lockdown. I am not sure whether a government lockdown is covered by insurance or not. "We will have to see. We have not assessed all these things. At this point of time, it is very difficult for me to give any concrete answer," Ganguly said. BCCI, also the world’s richest cricket board, has not yet provided any donations to fight back against the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Ganguly said that he will have a discussion with BCCI Secretary Jay Shah to chalk out the best options. "I haven't had a discussion with Jay. Let's see. We will assess the situation, follow directives and see what happens," he said. "If the government asks us, we will certainly hand over the facility. Anything that is need of the hour, we will do it. There is absolutely no problem," he asserted. ALSO READ: ICC set to have preliminary discussions on ICC T20 World Cup on March 29 as COVID-19 continues to impact global sports The BCCI president is of the view that complete lockdown is the best possible option at the current moment while adding whatever advisory the government and health ministry is issuing, everyone will have to follow it. "I think this is the best option at the current moment. Certain things are beyond anybody's control. Whatever directives that the government and ministry of health give us, we have to follow. That's the case all over the world. I don't know after how many years I am home on weekdays. Even during my busy schedule, I have had Sundays off but this is so different," he said.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly opens up on fate of IPL 2020, says 'can't say anything at the moment'

<p class="MsoNormal">With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. &nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-cancels-con-call-with-franchise-owners-as-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-by-thin-thread-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288198">BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-the-summer-olympics-ever-been-cancelled-a-look-back-at-history-as-dark-clouds-hover-over-2020-tokyo-games-288231">Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic.

With the novel coronavirus taking the entire world under its dreaded wings, the sporting calendar has been left completely shattered with a number of high-profile tournaments and events getting cancelled or postponed due to COVID19 pandemic. While tournaments like IPL has been already suspended until April 15 and a final call is expected soon, dark clouds are hovering over major events like the Olympics and ICC T20 World Cup. As the dreaded COVID-19 continues to spread like wildfire, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to conduct preliminary discussions on the fate of the ICC T20 World Cup on March 29, according to reports. An 18-member board of directors including heads of 12 Test playing nations are set to hold discussions surrounding T20 World Cup 2020 on March 29. ALSO READ: BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic The showpiece event is scheduled to kickstart in October 2020 and is set to be hosted by Australia. However, with major tournaments getting cancelled amid the coronavirus pandemic, all eyes have shifted towards the World Cup in the shortest format of the game. Interestingly, there’s another T20 World Cup scheduled in 2021 which will be hosted by India, hence, it will be interesting to see who backs out and whether one of the events get affected to not. ALSO READ: Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games The previous edition of the ICC T20 World Cup was hosted by India in 2016 where West Indies defeated England in the humdinger of a final. Carlos Brathwaite had come out as the hero for the Windies after smashing four sixes off Ben Stokes in the final over to help the Men in Maroon lift the coveted trophy.

ICC set to have preliminary discussions on ICC T20 World Cup on March 29 as COVID-19 continues to impact global sports

<p>The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team."</p>

<p>On Monday, a highly influential member of IOC, Richard Pound had said that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has been decided and an official announcement could be made soon.</p>

<p>“On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided. The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily while adding, “it will come in stages. We will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-to-be-postponed-by-a-year-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288146">Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="OLY-2020-TOKYO-THAILAND-HEALTH-VIRUS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="909aeed8-0cae-4fdb-818f-4fca82996350" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1Q3869.jpg" /></p>

<p>But have the Summer Olympics been cancelled any time in the past as well? The answer is yes. The Summer Olympics have been cancelled as many as three times in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-pm-ioc-chief-to-speak-as-olympics-hangs-in-balance-288206">Japan PM, IOC chief to speak as Olympics hangs in balance</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What led to the cancellation of the Summer Olympics in past?</strong></h2>

<p>The first cancellation of Summer Olympics happened in 1916, which were scheduled to be hosted by Berlin. The Games had to be cancelled due to World War I and Berlin had to wait for another 20 years to host the quadrennial event again.</p>

<p>The 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II. The outbreak of World War II after the invasion of Poland by the Nazi led to the events to be completely cancelled. Furthermore, World War II also led to the complete cancellation of the Winter Olympics in 1940 and 1944.</p>

<p>In 2016 Rio Olympics, there were major concerns surrounding the outbreak of mosquito-borne ‘Zika’ virus but the Games were held as per the schedule. However, some of the athletes had decided to boycott the Games.</p>

<p>While the current scenario due to the deadly COVID-19 is not at all ideal for 2020 Tokyo Olympics to go ahead as planned, an official verdict on the quadrennial event is expected soon from the International Olympic Association (IOC).&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team.

The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team." On Monday, a highly influential member of IOC, Richard Pound had said that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has been decided and an official announcement could be made soon. “On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided. The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily while adding, “it will come in stages. We will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.” ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic But have the Summer Olympics been cancelled any time in the past as well? The answer is yes. The Summer Olympics have been cancelled as many as three times in the past. ALSO READ: Japan PM, IOC chief to speak as Olympics hangs in balance What led to the cancellation of the Summer Olympics in past? The first cancellation of Summer Olympics happened in 1916, which were scheduled to be hosted by Berlin. The Games had to be cancelled due to World War I and Berlin had to wait for another 20 years to host the quadrennial event again. The 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II. The outbreak of World War II after the invasion of Poland by the Nazi led to the events to be completely cancelled. Furthermore, World War II also led to the complete cancellation of the Winter Olympics in 1940 and 1944. In 2016 Rio Olympics, there were major concerns surrounding the outbreak of mosquito-borne ‘Zika’ virus but the Games were held as per the schedule. However, some of the athletes had decided to boycott the Games. While the current scenario due to the deadly COVID-19 is not at all ideal for 2020 Tokyo Olympics to go ahead as planned, an official verdict on the quadrennial event is expected soon from the International Olympic Association (IOC).

Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games

<p>The novel coronavirus has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the worldwide economy has taken a massive hit, the sporting calendar has been left shattered as well. Almost every sporting event has been cancelled or postponed with all eyes on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was earlier suspended until April 15. However, with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to deteriorate with each passing day, the chances are extremely slim that the cash-rich tournament will go ahead after April 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a report, IPL 2020 might even not happen this year considering the current scenario due to the novel coronavirus. If the cash-rich tournament doesn’t take place in 2020 then the BCCI will take a massive hit on an approximate revenue of INR 2000 crore whereas the eight participating franchises could lose around IJNR 100 crore each.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-to-be-postponed-by-a-year-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288146">Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>"IPL this year might not happen"</strong></h2>

<p>“Given the present situation, I feel the IPL this year might not happen. That’s what it looks like,” a franchise official told a leading daily.</p>

<p>Whereas there’s a sense of unclarity and confusion in the BCCI as no one knows when the travel and visa restrictions will be normalized.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Nobody has clarity about the future. We don’t know when travel restrictions/visa restrictions will go, when things will settle down. Till then, there’s no point (thinking about the IPL),” a top BCCI official said.</p>

<p><strong>PHOTO GALLERY:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-much-will-the-ipl-2020-lose-if-it-gets-shelved-due-to-covid-19-286896#board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india-38979">How much will the IPL 2020 lose if it gets shelved due to COVID-19?</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the biggest hurdle for IPL will be to bring the overseas players on the same ship. While the coronavirus outbreak has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, some big-name players could opt out of the tournament if it goes ahead in 2020.</p>

<p>“And even if it settles down here but continues in some other country… we are not clear about that also. Japan, the host nation of the Olympics, is talking about a possible postponement. This (the outbreak) is far bigger than any sport or the IPL,” the BCCI official said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/going-toe-to-toe-in-the-gym-herschelle-gibbs-picks-virat-kohli-as-his-quarantine-partner-288118">'Going toe to toe in the gym' - Herschelle Gibbs picks Virat Kohli as his quarantine partner</a></strong></p>

<p>“At the moment, you can’t start thinking about anything. This (the Coronavirus problem) has to end and only then you can go back to the drawing board,” the BCCI official added.</p>

<p>The number of positive cases for COVID-19 has crossed the 450-mark in India with as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The novel coronavirus has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the worldwide economy has taken a massive hit, the sporting calendar has been left shattered as well.

The novel coronavirus has left the entire world in a stand-still. While the worldwide economy has taken a massive hit, the sporting calendar has been left shattered as well. Almost every sporting event has been cancelled or postponed with all eyes on the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which was earlier suspended until April 15. However, with the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to deteriorate with each passing day, the chances are extremely slim that the cash-rich tournament will go ahead after April 15. As per a report, IPL 2020 might even not happen this year considering the current scenario due to the novel coronavirus. If the cash-rich tournament doesn’t take place in 2020 then the BCCI will take a massive hit on an approximate revenue of INR 2000 crore whereas the eight participating franchises could lose around IJNR 100 crore each. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic "IPL this year might not happen" “Given the present situation, I feel the IPL this year might not happen. That’s what it looks like,” a franchise official told a leading daily. Whereas there’s a sense of unclarity and confusion in the BCCI as no one knows when the travel and visa restrictions will be normalized. “Nobody has clarity about the future. We don’t know when travel restrictions/visa restrictions will go, when things will settle down. Till then, there’s no point (thinking about the IPL),” a top BCCI official said. PHOTO GALLERY: How much will the IPL 2020 lose if it gets shelved due to COVID-19? However, the biggest hurdle for IPL will be to bring the overseas players on the same ship. While the coronavirus outbreak has taken almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, some big-name players could opt out of the tournament if it goes ahead in 2020. “And even if it settles down here but continues in some other country… we are not clear about that also. Japan, the host nation of the Olympics, is talking about a possible postponement. This (the outbreak) is far bigger than any sport or the IPL,” the BCCI official said. ALSO READ: 'Going toe to toe in the gym' - Herschelle Gibbs picks Virat Kohli as his quarantine partner “At the moment, you can’t start thinking about anything. This (the Coronavirus problem) has to end and only then you can go back to the drawing board,” the BCCI official added. The number of positive cases for COVID-19 has crossed the 450-mark in India with as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus.

IPL 2020 unlikely to happen this year; BCCI could lose Rs 2000cr, franchises Rs 100cr each

<p>The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has urged its players and officials to "keep a positive frame of mind" and "stay home" to contribute in the fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in a nationwide lockdown.</p>

<p>The coronavirus outbreak has claimed 16,000 lives worldwide, while infecting close to 4,00,000. India has reported nine deaths and nearly 500 positive cases so far.</p>

<p>"As the world combats COVID-19 and its unprecedented fallouts, confinement and quarantine are the only ways to pull a plug on the spread," BAI secretary Ajay Singhania said in a release.</p>

<p>"We, at Badminton Association of India, are deeply concerned with the wellbeing of all players, technical officials and the innumerable badminton fans out there. For your own safety and your loved ones, as well as the community at large, we urge you to stay at home.</p>

<p>The Badminton World Federation has suspended all tournaments till April 12 due to the pandemic, which has brought the whole world to a standstill with countries shutting down borders and going into lockdown mode.</p>

<p>In India, 32 states and union territories have been put in lockdown. Two states - Punjab and Maharashtra - and a UT - Puducherry - have declared curfews.</p>

<p>"While the entire country is on a lockdown mode and flight services, interstate trains and buses have been asked to shut down too and states are now enforcing curfew, as responsible citizens, we should follow it too," Singhania said.</p>

<p>"Keep a positive frame of mind. We are all in this together. Stay at home. Stay safe," he added</p>


The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has urged its players and officials to "keep a positive frame of mind" and "stay home" to contribute in the fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in a nationwide lockdown.

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has urged its players and officials to "keep a positive frame of mind" and "stay home" to contribute in the fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in a nationwide lockdown. The coronavirus outbreak has claimed 16,000 lives worldwide, while infecting close to 4,00,000. India has reported nine deaths and nearly 500 positive cases so far. "As the world combats COVID-19 and its unprecedented fallouts, confinement and quarantine are the only ways to pull a plug on the spread," BAI secretary Ajay Singhania said in a release. "We, at Badminton Association of India, are deeply concerned with the wellbeing of all players, technical officials and the innumerable badminton fans out there. For your own safety and your loved ones, as well as the community at large, we urge you to stay at home. The Badminton World Federation has suspended all tournaments till April 12 due to the pandemic, which has brought the whole world to a standstill with countries shutting down borders and going into lockdown mode. In India, 32 states and union territories have been put in lockdown. Two states - Punjab and Maharashtra - and a UT - Puducherry - have declared curfews. "While the entire country is on a lockdown mode and flight services, interstate trains and buses have been asked to shut down too and states are now enforcing curfew, as responsible citizens, we should follow it too," Singhania said. "Keep a positive frame of mind. We are all in this together. Stay at home. Stay safe," he added

Stay home, keep positive frame of mind: BAI to players, officials

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will hold telephone talks with International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach later Tuesday, the government said, as doubts swirl over the fate of the Tokyo 2020 Games.</p>

<p>The call, which was also expected to feature Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike, organising committee chief Yoshiro Mori and Olympics Minister Seiko Hashimoto, was scheduled for around 8pm local time (1100 GMT).</p>

<p>The contact comes after the IOC gave itself four weeks to weigh a possible postponement to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to the new coronavirus pandemic surging across the world.</p>

<p>Canada and Australia have already withdrawn their teams and the influential US Olympic committee has also said postponement was the best way forward.</p>

<p>Despite coming under increasing pressure, IOC officials believe a decision would be "premature" four months from the scheduled opening ceremony on July 24.</p>

<p>Abe has said he is committed to hosting a "complete" Olympics but admitted for the first time on Monday: "If that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."</p>


Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will hold telephone talks with International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach later Tuesday, the government said, as doubts swirl over the fate of the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will hold telephone talks with International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach later Tuesday, the government said, as doubts swirl over the fate of the Tokyo 2020 Games. The call, which was also expected to feature Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike, organising committee chief Yoshiro Mori and Olympics Minister Seiko Hashimoto, was scheduled for around 8pm local time (1100 GMT). The contact comes after the IOC gave itself four weeks to weigh a possible postponement to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to the new coronavirus pandemic surging across the world. Canada and Australia have already withdrawn their teams and the influential US Olympic committee has also said postponement was the best way forward. Despite coming under increasing pressure, IOC officials believe a decision would be "premature" four months from the scheduled opening ceremony on July 24. Abe has said he is committed to hosting a "complete" Olympics but admitted for the first time on Monday: "If that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

Japan PM, IOC chief to speak as Olympics hangs in balance

<p>The dark clouds hovering over the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 became darker on Tuesday as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday cancelled a conference call with the franchise owners to discuss the future of the cash-rich tournament amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>IPL 2020 is also looking towards a possible cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the situation surrounding the deadly virus continues to deteriorate. In India, over 450 positive cases and nine deaths have been reported as of Tuesday and almost the entire country is under complete lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>"Humanity first, everything else comes second"</strong></h2>

<p>“...humanity first, everything else comes second. The situation has not improved so there is no point in even talking about it. If IPL doesn’t happen so be it,” Kings XI Punjab co-owner Ness Wadia told PTI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-unlikely-to-happen-this-year-bcci-could-lose-inr-2000cr-franchises-100cr-each-288189">IPL 2020 unlikely to happen this year; BCCI could lose INR 2000cr, franchises 100cr each</a></strong></p>

<p>”There is no point in discussing anything at this point. The whole country is in lockdown. We have to deal with matters much more important than IPL,” added another franchise official, who did not wish to be named.</p>

<p>IPL 2020 was previously scheduled to start on March 29 but was suspended until April 15 given the coronavirus crisis all over the world. Wadia is of the view that everything is irrelevant at the moment because the entire world is fighting against the novel coronavirus</p>

<p>“I can’t even think about the IPL at this point. It is irrelevant along with everything else. The only thing which is relevant is in what we are living in and it is a world war three situation where we are fighting to help so many people,” Wadia said.</p>

<p>“The government has taken decisive steps. We often criticise the government but for the proactive steps, they have taken we should applaud them. A country as big as India has suspended all flights. That is a very massive and positive step,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-to-be-postponed-by-a-year-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288146">Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>Whereas a BCCI official has said that IPL is a much smaller event as compared to the Olympics and if the Tokyo Games can be postponed by a year then the cash-rich tournament is nothing in front of it.</p>

<p>“If Olympics can be postponed by a year, IPL is a much smaller entity in that regard. It is becoming increasingly difficult to organise. At this point the government is not even thinking about allowing foreign visas,” a BCCI official in the know of things said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, every stakeholder is in discussion to control the financial damage with insurance companies and broadcasters. As per reports, BCCI is set to lose out on an approximate INR 2000cr of revenue whereas each franchise will lose out on INR 100cr.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


The dark clouds hovering over the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 became darker on Tuesday as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday cancelled a conference call with the franchise owners to discuss the future of the cash-rich tournament amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The dark clouds hovering over the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 became darker on Tuesday as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday cancelled a conference call with the franchise owners to discuss the future of the cash-rich tournament amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. IPL 2020 is also looking towards a possible cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the situation surrounding the deadly virus continues to deteriorate. In India, over 450 positive cases and nine deaths have been reported as of Tuesday and almost the entire country is under complete lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Humanity first, everything else comes second" “...humanity first, everything else comes second. The situation has not improved so there is no point in even talking about it. If IPL doesn’t happen so be it,” Kings XI Punjab co-owner Ness Wadia told PTI. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 unlikely to happen this year; BCCI could lose INR 2000cr, franchises 100cr each ”There is no point in discussing anything at this point. The whole country is in lockdown. We have to deal with matters much more important than IPL,” added another franchise official, who did not wish to be named. IPL 2020 was previously scheduled to start on March 29 but was suspended until April 15 given the coronavirus crisis all over the world. Wadia is of the view that everything is irrelevant at the moment because the entire world is fighting against the novel coronavirus “I can’t even think about the IPL at this point. It is irrelevant along with everything else. The only thing which is relevant is in what we are living in and it is a world war three situation where we are fighting to help so many people,” Wadia said. “The government has taken decisive steps. We often criticise the government but for the proactive steps, they have taken we should applaud them. A country as big as India has suspended all flights. That is a very massive and positive step,” he added. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic Whereas a BCCI official has said that IPL is a much smaller event as compared to the Olympics and if the Tokyo Games can be postponed by a year then the cash-rich tournament is nothing in front of it. “If Olympics can be postponed by a year, IPL is a much smaller entity in that regard. It is becoming increasingly difficult to organise. At this point the government is not even thinking about allowing foreign visas,” a BCCI official in the know of things said. Meanwhile, every stakeholder is in discussion to control the financial damage with insurance companies and broadcasters. As per reports, BCCI is set to lose out on an approximate INR 2000cr of revenue whereas each franchise will lose out on INR 100cr.

BCCI cancels con-call with franchise owners as fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread due to COVID-19 pandemic

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