The 2020 Tokyo Olympics finally kicks off on Friday. The Games will begin still in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time ever, no fans will be permitted to witness the opening ceremony just like they have been banned from other sporting competitions.

Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony to kick off on Friday

The opening ceremony begins with the stadium being lit and a couple of colourful performances. The most troubled Olympics in modern history finally open in Tokyo on Friday.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Less than a thousand people attend opening ceremony

Tokyo Olympics: The Parade of Nations at opening ceremony

The head of the International Olympic Committee met with the emperor on Thursday and assured him organisers were doing their utmost not to bring infections into the country.

Tokyo 2020: Japan's Emperor Naruhito to open Olympics, reprising grandfather's role

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago. 
 
Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and world number two, has not played a competitive match since pulling out of the French Open in May amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament in an effort to protect her mental well-being. 
 
But with all of her major wins coming on hard courts, the same surface being used in Tokyo, the 23-year-old remains widely seen as one of host Japan's strongest gold medal contenders in a field of 64 players each for women's and men's singles that is missing some of the biggest names in the sport. 
 
Amid heightened coronavirus pandemic restrictions, Switzerland`s Roger Federer and Spain`s Rafael Nadal, each with multiple Grand Slams to their names, both pulled out ahead of the Games, along with reigning US&nbsp;Open men`s champion Dominic Thiem. 
 
In the women's singles, two-time Slam winner Simona Halep will be absent, like American sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each. Another US&nbsp;player, teenager Coco Gauff, pulled out earlier this week after testing positive for COVID-19. 
 
Osaka, who is making her Olympic debut, had originally been scheduled to kick off the tournament on Centre Court at the Ariake Tennis Park on Saturday. 
 
But she will now take on China`s Zheng Saisai, ranked 52 in the world, on Sunday, following a request from Tokyo 2020 organisers, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) spokesperson confirmed to Reuters. There was no reason given for the change. 
 
Last year`s French Open champion Iga Swiatek will now play the first marquee match of the Games against Mona Barthel of Germany, with the contest set to begin at 11.00am local time (0200 GMT). 
 
Osaka could potentially go on to meet Swiatek in a blockbuster quarter-final, while world number one Ashleigh Barty of Australia may await on the other side of the draw. 
 
In a essay penned for Time Magazine earlier this month, Osaka said she stood by her decision to step away from the court but was now ready to make Japan proud at the Games. 
 
"An Olympic Games itself is special, but to have the opportunity to play in front of the Japanese fans is a dream come true," Osaka wrote.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will return to the spotlight on Sunday, kicking off her Olympic campaign as a home crowd favourite after taking a mental health break two months ago. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and world number two, has not played a competitive match since pulling out of the French Open in May amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament in an effort to protect her mental well-being. But with all of her major wins coming on hard courts, the same surface being used in Tokyo, the 23-year-old remains widely seen as one of host Japan's strongest gold medal contenders in a field of 64 players each for women's and men's singles that is missing some of the biggest names in the sport. Amid heightened coronavirus pandemic restrictions, Switzerland`s Roger Federer and Spain`s Rafael Nadal, each with multiple Grand Slams to their names, both pulled out ahead of the Games, along with reigning US Open men`s champion Dominic Thiem. In the women's singles, two-time Slam winner Simona Halep will be absent, like American sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each. Another US player, teenager Coco Gauff, pulled out earlier this week after testing positive for COVID-19. Osaka, who is making her Olympic debut, had originally been scheduled to kick off the tournament on Centre Court at the Ariake Tennis Park on Saturday. But she will now take on China`s Zheng Saisai, ranked 52 in the world, on Sunday, following a request from Tokyo 2020 organisers, an International Tennis Federation (ITF) spokesperson confirmed to Reuters. There was no reason given for the change. Last year`s French Open champion Iga Swiatek will now play the first marquee match of the Games against Mona Barthel of Germany, with the contest set to begin at 11.00am local time (0200 GMT). Osaka could potentially go on to meet Swiatek in a blockbuster quarter-final, while world number one Ashleigh Barty of Australia may await on the other side of the draw. In a essay penned for Time Magazine earlier this month, Osaka said she stood by her decision to step away from the court but was now ready to make Japan proud at the Games. "An Olympic Games itself is special, but to have the opportunity to play in front of the Japanese fans is a dream come true," Osaka wrote.

Olympics- Tennis: Japan's Osaka returns to Games' spotlight on Sunday

Japan's exports jumped in June led by United States demand for cars and China-bound shipments of chip-making equipment, supporting hopes for an export-led recovery in the world's third-largest economy.

World Business Watch: Japan's exports jump on solid United States and China demand

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported.

The five-minute video has received over two million views on China's YouTube-like platforms.

It was eventually removed, but copies of the film were uploaded to YouTube and Twitter by some individuals.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Chinese warplane enters Taiwan's air defence identification zone, 4th incursion this month

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-warplane-enters-taiwans-air-defence-identification-zone-4th-incursion-this-month-396858/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will use nuclear bombs first," the video said. "We will use nuclear bombs continuously. We will do this until Japan declares unconditional surrender for the second time."&nbsp;

The CCP vows to "liberate Taiwan," and cautions Japan against sending "one soldier, one plane, or one ship" to the island.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Full Video: China &amp; Taiwan clash at WION Global summit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/full-video-china-taiwan-clash-at-wion-global-summit-372899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The threats come after Japanese officials made comments about Taiwan's sovereignty two weeks ago, with Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso saying that Japan must "protect Taiwan," according to The Japan Times.&nbsp;

Even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy with almost 24 million inhabitants located off the southern coast of mainland China.&nbsp;

Taiwan, on the other hand, has retaliated against Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic connections with democracies such as the United States.

China has warned that "Taiwanese independence" will result in war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported.

In a video broadcast on a Communist Party of China-approved channel, the government threatened to deploy "continuous nuclear bombs" against Japan over its intervention in Taiwan, Fox News reported. The five-minute video has received over two million views on China's YouTube-like platforms. It was eventually removed, but copies of the film were uploaded to YouTube and Twitter by some individuals. Watch | Chinese warplane enters Taiwan's air defence identification zone, 4th incursion this month "We will use nuclear bombs first," the video said. "We will use nuclear bombs continuously. We will do this until Japan declares unconditional surrender for the second time." The CCP vows to "liberate Taiwan," and cautions Japan against sending "one soldier, one plane, or one ship" to the island. Watch | Full Video: China & Taiwan clash at WION Global summit The threats come after Japanese officials made comments about Taiwan's sovereignty two weeks ago, with Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso saying that Japan must "protect Taiwan," according to The Japan Times. Even though the two sides have been ruled separately for more than seven decades, Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy with almost 24 million inhabitants located off the southern coast of mainland China. Taiwan, on the other hand, has retaliated against Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic connections with democracies such as the United States. China has warned that "Taiwanese independence" will result in war. (With inputs from agencies)

We will use nuclear bombs continuously: China to Japan over interference in Taiwan 

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

"We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday.

"Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said.

The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo.

But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013.

The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency.

The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries.

The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia.

The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony.

The Tour de France's Saitama Criterium has been cancelled for the second straight year over rising Covid-19 cases, organizers said, days before the Tokyo Olympic opening ceremony. "We have reached the conclusion that our priority is ensuring the safety and security of the people of Saitama, athletes and other participants, and fans," organisers said in a statement late Tuesday. "Various anti-infection measures are being taken... but the expanding spread of infections in Japan remains unpredictable," the statement said. The annual autumn race features winners and stars from the Tour de France and attracts some 100,000 fans to the Saitama region, north of Tokyo. But the pandemic forced the event's cancellation last year for the first time since it started in 2013. The greater Tokyo region has seen a rapid rise of new infections in recent weeks, prompting the central government to place the area under a state of emergency. The measure is much looser than a lockdown, however, and Japan's pandemic outbreak remains much smaller than in many other countries. The Tokyo Olympics started competition Wednesday with a softball game between Japan and Australia. The Games, which will officially open Friday, will be held mostly behind closed doors with athletes and officials placed under strict anti-virus protocols.

Japan's cycling Saitama Criterium cancelled over pandemic

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists.

The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf.

"Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference.

"Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added.

Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia.

Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game.

"No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said.

The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors.

"It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany.

Brazil's Olympic football men's team captain Dani Alves has played on the game's biggest stages but says he is still feeling pre-tournament 'butterflies' ahead of Thursday's opener against Germany. The 38-year-old has made 118 appearances for the full Brazil national team, featuring in two World Cups and at club level, he won three Champions League titles with Barcelona but is set for his debut in the Games as an over-age player for the defending gold medallists. The full-back showed he is ready to enjoy the occasion by taking to the intercom during the team's flight to Japan to read the safety instructions while wearing a flight attendant neck scarf. "Those that know me, know I have a youthful spirit, and as it is my first time I will have the same sort of experience as the young lads. Even though I have enjoyed some big moments in my career, given this is my first time at the Olympics I feel some butterflies in my stomach," he told a news conference. "Being here is really a special feeling. I am thankful for the opportunity. I hope I can live up to the expectations of the competition and also of our national team," he added. Brazil won the tournament on home soil in 2016 beating Germany in the final and the pair have been drawn in Group D along with Ivory Coast and Saudi Arabia. Germany's Olympic preparation match against Honduras on Saturday was cut short by five minutes after defender Jordan Torunarigha was allegedly racially abused but coach Stefan Kuntz said there would not be any gesture or protest made before the Brazil game. "No, we decided yesterday as a team that as far as we are concerned that matter is concluded and Jordan said that he accepted that as well, so we are going to conclude that case there," he said. The German team visited the athlete's village on Tuesday where they were able to meet some of the country's other competitors. "It was really great to feel part of the whole German team, something special to see where 10,000 athletes will be and to feel that whole Olympic feeling and spirit, something I haven't experienced before," said Kuntz.

Tokyo Olympics: Brazil's captain Dani Alves feels 'butterflies' ahead of Germany opener

Japan is struggling as a host of the Olympics. Athletes have tested positive at the Olympic village. A venue is "smelling like a toilet". A major sponsor has pulled TV ads & South Korea's President has called off visit Tokyo.

Gravitas: With 4 days left for the games, Japan struggles as a host

An alternate on the United States women's gymnastics team has tested positive for COVID-19 in an Olympic training camp in Inzai city, taking the total number of cases involving the games to nearly 60.

Tokyo Olympics: US gymnast tested positive at training camp in Inzai city

Japan's core consumer prices rose 0.2% in June from a year earlier to mark the fastest annual pace in over a year, in a sign that the impact of global commodity inflation was gradually broadening.

World Business Watch: Japan's core inflation hits 15-month high on energy costs

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote.

Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday.

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"Due to the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic, there is potential for the Tokyo Summer Games to be more unpredictable than normal," Gracenote said, releasing its final 'Virtual Medal Table' before the start of the Games on Friday.

The United States was picked to top the table but its expected haul was cut to 96, compared to the 121 won five years ago.

Asian powerhouse China's medal count was put at 66 but Gracenote said it might be a conservative projection due to a lack of data on the country's athletes.

"Nearly 80% of the Chinese athletes ranked in the Virtual Medal Table top-8s have no results since the pandemic began and the forecast total may be underrating the country's actual performance," it said.

Russian athletes, who will be competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offences, were projected to come second in the table with 68 medals.

Britain was placed fifth with 52 medals, 15 fewer than it won in Rio.

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote. Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday.

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote. Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Two Mexico Olympic baseball players test positive for Covid-19 "Due to the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic, there is potential for the Tokyo Summer Games to be more unpredictable than normal," Gracenote said, releasing its final 'Virtual Medal Table' before the start of the Games on Friday. The United States was picked to top the table but its expected haul was cut to 96, compared to the 121 won five years ago. Asian powerhouse China's medal count was put at 66 but Gracenote said it might be a conservative projection due to a lack of data on the country's athletes. "Nearly 80% of the Chinese athletes ranked in the Virtual Medal Table top-8s have no results since the pandemic began and the forecast total may be underrating the country's actual performance," it said. Russian athletes, who will be competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offences, were projected to come second in the table with 68 medals. Britain was placed fifth with 52 medals, 15 fewer than it won in Rio.

Japan projected to improve medals tally by 50% in Tokyo Olympics: Gracenote

Two-thirds of people in Japan do not believe the country can host a safe and secure Olympics amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey published by the Asahi newspaper just four days before the opening ceremony in Tokyo. 
 
In the poll, 68% of respondents expressed doubt about the ability of Olympic organisers to control coronavirus infections, with 55% saying they were opposed to the Games going ahead. 
 
Three-quarters of the 1,444 people in the telephone survey said they agreed with a decision to ban spectators from events. 
 
As COVID-19 infections rise in Tokyo, forcing the government into a fourth state of emergency, public concern has grown about hosting an event that is bringing tens of thousands of overseas athletes, officials and journalists into Japan's capital. 
 
Games officials on Sunday reported the first COVID-19 case among competitors in the athletes' village in Tokyo, bringing the total number of cases connected to the Olympics to at least 10. 
 
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach has said he hopes the Japanese public will warm to the Games once competition begins and as Japanese athletes begin winning medals.

Two-thirds of people in Japan do not believe the country can host a safe and secure Olympics amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey published by the Asahi newspaper just four days before the opening ceremony in Tokyo.

Two-thirds of people in Japan do not believe the country can host a safe and secure Olympics amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey published by the Asahi newspaper just four days before the opening ceremony in Tokyo. In the poll, 68% of respondents expressed doubt about the ability of Olympic organisers to control coronavirus infections, with 55% saying they were opposed to the Games going ahead. Three-quarters of the 1,444 people in the telephone survey said they agreed with a decision to ban spectators from events. As COVID-19 infections rise in Tokyo, forcing the government into a fourth state of emergency, public concern has grown about hosting an event that is bringing tens of thousands of overseas athletes, officials and journalists into Japan's capital. Games officials on Sunday reported the first COVID-19 case among competitors in the athletes' village in Tokyo, bringing the total number of cases connected to the Olympics to at least 10. International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach has said he hopes the Japanese public will warm to the Games once competition begins and as Japanese athletes begin winning medals.

Tokyo 2020: Two-thirds of Japanese doubt pandemic Olympics can be safe, says poll

A Tokyo court sentenced US Army Special Forces veteran Michael Taylor to two years in prison and his son to one year and eight months for helping former Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn flee Japan, where he had faced charges of financial misconduct.

American father-son duo handed jail sentences for aiding Ex-Nissan CEO’s escape

The organisers did not specify whether the two infected athletes staying at the village will be quarantined elsewhere.

Tokyo Olympic 2020: 2 athletes test positive for Covid-19

India will be represented by a 228-strong contingent, including 119 athletes, at the Tokyo Olympics, which will be held under strict health protocols and without spectators in the wake of the raging pandemic.

First batch of India’s 88 Olympic-bound contingent reaches Japan

The International Olympic Committee on Saturday said it was aware of scepticism within Japan about staging the Tokyo Olympics during a pandemic but it is hoping success on the field of play for the host nation could change the mood. 
 
The Games will be held without spectators and amid draconian COVID-19 safety measures, while the Japanese public remains largely opposed to the event amid a resurgence of infections and concern that an influx of international visitors could turn the Tokyo Olympics into a super-spreader event. 
 
"We are well aware of the scepticism a number of people have here in Japan. My appeal to the Japanese people is to welcome the athletes for their competitions," IOC President Thomas Bach told a news conference. 
 
"We ask and invite the Japanese people, humbly, to welcome and support the athletes from around the world. They (athletes) have the same interest as the Japanese people for a safe and secure Games," he said. 
 
Organisers on Saturday recorded their first positive case within the athletes` village, an area that the IOC had been hoping would stay clean as proof that the Games could be held in a safe environment. The Games start on July 23. 
 
Critics of the Games in Japan earlier this week submitted a petition against the event that has garnered more than 450,000 signatures this month. 
 
"The Japanese can have this confidence (of a safe and secure Games) and we will try to continue this dialogue with them, knowing we will not succeed 100%," Bach said. 
 
"But we are also confident once the Japanese people will see the Japanese athletes successfully performing in the Olympic Games then the attitude may become less emotion, for not saying less aggressive."

The International Olympic Committee on Saturday said it was aware of scepticism within Japan about staging the Tokyo Olympics during a pandemic but it is hoping success on the field of play for the host nation could change the mood.

The International Olympic Committee on Saturday said it was aware of scepticism within Japan about staging the Tokyo Olympics during a pandemic but it is hoping success on the field of play for the host nation could change the mood. The Games will be held without spectators and amid draconian COVID-19 safety measures, while the Japanese public remains largely opposed to the event amid a resurgence of infections and concern that an influx of international visitors could turn the Tokyo Olympics into a super-spreader event. "We are well aware of the scepticism a number of people have here in Japan. My appeal to the Japanese people is to welcome the athletes for their competitions," IOC President Thomas Bach told a news conference. "We ask and invite the Japanese people, humbly, to welcome and support the athletes from around the world. They (athletes) have the same interest as the Japanese people for a safe and secure Games," he said. Organisers on Saturday recorded their first positive case within the athletes` village, an area that the IOC had been hoping would stay clean as proof that the Games could be held in a safe environment. The Games start on July 23. Critics of the Games in Japan earlier this week submitted a petition against the event that has garnered more than 450,000 signatures this month. "The Japanese can have this confidence (of a safe and secure Games) and we will try to continue this dialogue with them, knowing we will not succeed 100%," Bach said. "But we are also confident once the Japanese people will see the Japanese athletes successfully performing in the Olympic Games then the attitude may become less emotion, for not saying less aggressive."

Olympics: IOC aware of Japan scepticism over Games, hopes home success will shift mood

An Ugandan weightlifter who went missing from an Olympic training camp on Friday left a note saying he wanted to stay in Japan, media reports said, adding to confusion ahead of the Games which begin next week. 
 
Julius Ssekitoleko was discovered missing from the Ugandan team's training site in Izumisano, a city in Osaka, western Japan. 
 
Media reports said he left behind a note saying he wanted to stay and work in Japan, as life in Uganda was difficult. 
 
Ssekitoleko had not qualified to take part in the Tokyo Games, and was due to return to Uganda on next Tuesday. 
 
A nearby train station recorded him purchasing a bullet train ticket to Nagoya in central Japan, the reports said. 
 
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed for a year due to the global pandemic, is being held under tight quarantine rules, restricting participants' movements to prevent the spread of infections.

An Ugandan weightlifter who went missing from an Olympic training camp on Friday left a note saying he wanted to stay in Japan, media reports said, adding to confusion ahead of the Games which begin next week.

An Ugandan weightlifter who went missing from an Olympic training camp on Friday left a note saying he wanted to stay in Japan, media reports said, adding to confusion ahead of the Games which begin next week. Julius Ssekitoleko was discovered missing from the Ugandan team's training site in Izumisano, a city in Osaka, western Japan. Media reports said he left behind a note saying he wanted to stay and work in Japan, as life in Uganda was difficult. Ssekitoleko had not qualified to take part in the Tokyo Games, and was due to return to Uganda on next Tuesday. A nearby train station recorded him purchasing a bullet train ticket to Nagoya in central Japan, the reports said. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, postponed for a year due to the global pandemic, is being held under tight quarantine rules, restricting participants' movements to prevent the spread of infections.

Missing Ugandan weightlifter wanted to stay in Japan: Reports

A foreign athlete and five Olympic workers in Japan have tested positive for COVID-19 just over a week before the opening ceremony. This has raised new concerns about the spread of coronavirus at a global sporting event.

An athlete, 5 Olympic workers test positive for COVID as opening ceremony nears

PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Rudraksha Convention Centre in Varanasi. This project is part of the 'Kyoto-Kashi' pact. Varanasi will also get projects worth $200 million to become a global tourist hub. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

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Just days before the much-awaited Tokyo Olympics, a Ugandan athlete has reportedly gone missing after disappearing from his hotel at a training camp in the Japanese town.&nbsp;

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According to AFP, the town hosting the delegation said that 20-year-old weightlifter Julius Ssekitoleko did not appear for his test of Covid-19 and wasn't also seen in his hotel room.

"One member of the Ugandan delegation, which the city received as a host town, has gone missing and cannot be reached," the city of Izumisano said in a statement."The city is making all efforts to search for the individual. We have reported the matter to police."

Athletes from Uganda arrived in Japan last month, they went to Izumisano in Osaka region for a pre-Games training camp.&nbsp;

However, a coach tested positive on arrival, and other delegation members were subsequently asked to self-isolate, with a second member later testing positive.

The Games will take place behind closed doors due to a state of emergency in Tokyo. The Japanese capital is already facing a surge in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

Athletes and other Olympic participants are subject to strict rules including regular testing and limits on their movement.

(Inputs from Agency)

Just days before the much-awaited Tokyo Olympics, a Ugandan athlete has reportedly gone missing after disappearing from his hotel at a training camp in the Japanese town.

Just days before the much-awaited Tokyo Olympics, a Ugandan athlete has reportedly gone missing after disappearing from his hotel at a training camp in the Japanese town. ALSO READ: Olympics: Tennis star Novak Djokovic confirms he will compete at Tokyo Games According to AFP, the town hosting the delegation said that 20-year-old weightlifter Julius Ssekitoleko did not appear for his test of Covid-19 and wasn't also seen in his hotel room. "One member of the Ugandan delegation, which the city received as a host town, has gone missing and cannot be reached," the city of Izumisano said in a statement."The city is making all efforts to search for the individual. We have reported the matter to police." Athletes from Uganda arrived in Japan last month, they went to Izumisano in Osaka region for a pre-Games training camp. However, a coach tested positive on arrival, and other delegation members were subsequently asked to self-isolate, with a second member later testing positive. The Games will take place behind closed doors due to a state of emergency in Tokyo. The Japanese capital is already facing a surge in COVID-19 cases. Athletes and other Olympic participants are subject to strict rules including regular testing and limits on their movement. (Inputs from Agency)

Tokyo Olympics: Athlete from Uganda goes missing in Japan - Reports

Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has said that India and Japan share the same fundamental values and have a long history of exchanges. Suga was making comments at the inauguration of the International Cooperation and Convention Centre, Rudraksha in Varanasi by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Indian PM Modi in Varanasi: International centre symbolises India-Japan ties

Growing military tensions around Taiwan as well as economic and technological rivalry between China and the United States threaten peace and stability in East Asia as the regional power balance shifts in Beijing`s favour, Japan said in its annual defence white paper. 
 
"It is necessary that we pay close attention to the situation with a sense of crisis more than ever," the paper said in a new section on Taiwan. "In particular, competition in technological fields is likely to become even more intense," it said about the U.S.-China tussle. 
 
The defence review, which was approved by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga`s government on Tuesday, points to China as Japan`s main national security concern. Beijing`s recent uptick in military activity around Taiwan has Tokyo worried since the island lies close to the Okinawa chain at the western end of the Japanese archipelago. 
 
Chinese President Xi Jinping this month pledged to complete the "reunification" with Taiwan and in June criticised the United States as a "risk creator" after it sent a warship through the Taiwan Straits separating the island from the mainland. 
 
Japan`s deputy prime minister and finance minister, Taro Aso, this month in a speech reported by Japanese media said Japan should join forces with the United States to defend Taiwan from any invasion. Aso later said any contingency over Taiwan should be resolved through dialogue when asked about the remarks, which drew a rebuke from Beijing. 
 
As the military rivalry between the United States and China deepens, their economic competition is fuelling a race to take the lead in key technologies, such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and quantum computing. 
 
The emergence of the rival technology camps poses a challenge for Japan because its economy relies as much on business ties with China as it does with the United States. Japan will also have spend heavily to keep up with government funding for technology development in the United States, China and Europe. 
 
US&nbsp;Senate lawmakers recently passed the Innovation and Competition Act of 2021, which authorises $190 billion spending on technology including $54 billion to increase chip production. House of Representative lawmakers are debating a separate proposal that also promises generous funding, the "Ensuring American Global Leadership and Engagement Act," or EAGLE Act. 
 
The Japanese annual security review for the first time also includes a section on threats posed by climate change, which it says will increase competition for land and resources, and may trigger mass movement of climate refugees. An increase in disasters linked to global warming could also stretch military capabilities, it adds, while Arctic Sea ice melting could lead to the militarisation of northern waters.

Growing military tensions around Taiwan as well as economic and technological rivalry between China and the United States threaten peace and stability in East Asia as the regional power balance shifts in Beijing`s favour, Japan said in its annual defence white paper.

Growing military tensions around Taiwan as well as economic and technological rivalry between China and the United States threaten peace and stability in East Asia as the regional power balance shifts in Beijing`s favour, Japan said in its annual defence white paper. "It is necessary that we pay close attention to the situation with a sense of crisis more than ever," the paper said in a new section on Taiwan. "In particular, competition in technological fields is likely to become even more intense," it said about the U.S.-China tussle. The defence review, which was approved by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga`s government on Tuesday, points to China as Japan`s main national security concern. Beijing`s recent uptick in military activity around Taiwan has Tokyo worried since the island lies close to the Okinawa chain at the western end of the Japanese archipelago. Chinese President Xi Jinping this month pledged to complete the "reunification" with Taiwan and in June criticised the United States as a "risk creator" after it sent a warship through the Taiwan Straits separating the island from the mainland. Japan`s deputy prime minister and finance minister, Taro Aso, this month in a speech reported by Japanese media said Japan should join forces with the United States to defend Taiwan from any invasion. Aso later said any contingency over Taiwan should be resolved through dialogue when asked about the remarks, which drew a rebuke from Beijing. As the military rivalry between the United States and China deepens, their economic competition is fuelling a race to take the lead in key technologies, such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The emergence of the rival technology camps poses a challenge for Japan because its economy relies as much on business ties with China as it does with the United States. Japan will also have spend heavily to keep up with government funding for technology development in the United States, China and Europe. US Senate lawmakers recently passed the Innovation and Competition Act of 2021, which authorises $190 billion spending on technology including $54 billion to increase chip production. House of Representative lawmakers are debating a separate proposal that also promises generous funding, the "Ensuring American Global Leadership and Engagement Act," or EAGLE Act. The Japanese annual security review for the first time also includes a section on threats posed by climate change, which it says will increase competition for land and resources, and may trigger mass movement of climate refugees. An increase in disasters linked to global warming could also stretch military capabilities, it adds, while Arctic Sea ice melting could lead to the militarisation of northern waters.

Japan warns of crisis over Taiwan, growing risks from US-China rivalry

China's athletes were the first ones to show up in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics and fear that poor prevention measures at their lodging will expand the danger of getting COVID-19.&nbsp;

The pandemic has projected a shadow over the games with coordinators restricting all fans from settings in Tokyo and three adjoining prefectures, in an immense blow for the event.&nbsp;

A couple of remote regions are permitted to have a limited number of local fans, while overseas fans were prohibited months prior. Coordinators have guaranteed that the event will be safe by all means.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-to-be-held-behind-closed-doors-under-state-of-emergency-measures-396768" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics to be held behind closed doors under state of emergency measures</a>

Although, after they showed up in Enoshima, an island where the sailing event will occur, China's sailing team whined of lacking precautions at their hotel.&nbsp;

"The Chinese team lives on one floor, but mixing with tourists in the hotel is certainly a hidden danger. We are consulting with the Organizing Committee on this issue," said Zhang Xiaodong, head of the Chinese Sailing Association.

The International Olympic Committee has delivered a playbook offering security rules for events yet acquits itself of any obligation in the event that they get the virus. Covid concerns had prompted calls in Japan for the Olympics to be deferred or even dropped.&nbsp;

Coordinators have said competitors will be tested each day once they show up in Tokyo. Furthermore, however, it's anything but mandatory to be vaccinated, the IOC has said up to 80 per cent of competitors would have received the vials before the games start on July 23.

China's athletes were the first ones to show up in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics and fear that poor prevention measures at their lodging will expand the danger of getting COVID-19.

China's athletes were the first ones to show up in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics and fear that poor prevention measures at their lodging will expand the danger of getting COVID-19. The pandemic has projected a shadow over the games with coordinators restricting all fans from settings in Tokyo and three adjoining prefectures, in an immense blow for the event. A couple of remote regions are permitted to have a limited number of local fans, while overseas fans were prohibited months prior. Coordinators have guaranteed that the event will be safe by all means. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics to be held behind closed doors under state of emergency measures Although, after they showed up in Enoshima, an island where the sailing event will occur, China's sailing team whined of lacking precautions at their hotel. "The Chinese team lives on one floor, but mixing with tourists in the hotel is certainly a hidden danger. We are consulting with the Organizing Committee on this issue," said Zhang Xiaodong, head of the Chinese Sailing Association. The International Olympic Committee has delivered a playbook offering security rules for events yet acquits itself of any obligation in the event that they get the virus. Covid concerns had prompted calls in Japan for the Olympics to be deferred or even dropped. Coordinators have said competitors will be tested each day once they show up in Tokyo. Furthermore, however, it's anything but mandatory to be vaccinated, the IOC has said up to 80 per cent of competitors would have received the vials before the games start on July 23.

Tokyo Olympics: Chinese athletes complain about lax virus precautions at hotel

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases.

Organizers last week announced that spectators would be banned from nearly all venues. Spectators from abroad were already banned months ago, and officials are now asking residents to watch the Games on TV to keep the movement of people, which could spread contagion, to a minimum.

Opinion polls have consistently shown the Japanese public is concerned about going ahead with the Games during the pandemic.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's handling of the pandemic - including an initially slow vaccination rollout - has eroded his support. The issue is especially sensitive ahead of a national election and a ruling party leadership race due later this year.

"We would ask people to support athletes from home," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said on a Sunday TV program.

The Games, postponed from last year because of the pandemic, run from July 23 to August 8, while the state of emergency - the capitals fourth - lasts until August 22, shortly before the Paralympics begin.

The government and organizers had long seen the Games as a chance to display Japan's recovery from a devastating 2011 earthquake and nuclear crisis.

On Saturday, the governor of Fukushima prefecture, the site of the nuclear disaster, said spectators would also be banned from softball and baseball games there, reversing an earlier decision.

RISING TOKYO INFECTIONS

World No. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic said on Sunday he was "50-50" about competing at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;following the organizers' decision to ban fans from attending and limits on the number of people he can take to the Games.

Some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Nick Kyrgios, Serena Williams, and Simona Halep have already said that they will skip the Games.

Japan has recorded more than 815,440 COVID-19 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths.

Recent rises in Tokyo have been particularly worrisome amid a vaccination rollout that got off to a slow start and has faced supply glitches after speeding up. Only about 28% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Tokyo recorded 502 new cases on Sunday, the 23rd straight day of week-on-week gains, and experts worry that the public has grown weary of restrictions, mostly voluntary, on activities.

The coronavirus curbs include asking restaurants to close early and to stop serving alcohol in exchange for a government subsidy, measures that have hit the eateries hard and caused many to complain of unfairness as the Games are set to go ahead.

Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is also in charge of the pandemic response, sparked outrage when he suggested late on Thursday he would ask banks to put pressure on eateries that do not comply with the stricter measures.

In an about-face, the government's top spokesperson Kato said on Friday it had decided banks would not be asked to press restaurants and bars that do not follow the government request to stop serving alcohol under the emergency restrictions.

On Monday, "Anyone but LDP or Komeito" was trending on Twitter, a reference to voting for political parties other than Suga's ruling Liberal Democratic Party or its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, in the coming parliamentary election.

"I'm not a restaurateur, but this administration that couldn't come up with effective anti-coronavirus steps despite having a year to get ready for the&nbsp;Olympics... is no good," said one angry Twitter user.

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases.

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases. Organizers last week announced that spectators would be banned from nearly all venues. Spectators from abroad were already banned months ago, and officials are now asking residents to watch the Games on TV to keep the movement of people, which could spread contagion, to a minimum. Opinion polls have consistently shown the Japanese public is concerned about going ahead with the Games during the pandemic. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's handling of the pandemic - including an initially slow vaccination rollout - has eroded his support. The issue is especially sensitive ahead of a national election and a ruling party leadership race due later this year. "We would ask people to support athletes from home," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said on a Sunday TV program. The Games, postponed from last year because of the pandemic, run from July 23 to August 8, while the state of emergency - the capitals fourth - lasts until August 22, shortly before the Paralympics begin. The government and organizers had long seen the Games as a chance to display Japan's recovery from a devastating 2011 earthquake and nuclear crisis. On Saturday, the governor of Fukushima prefecture, the site of the nuclear disaster, said spectators would also be banned from softball and baseball games there, reversing an earlier decision. RISING TOKYO INFECTIONS World No. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic said on Sunday he was "50-50" about competing at the Tokyo Olympics following the organizers' decision to ban fans from attending and limits on the number of people he can take to the Games. Some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Nick Kyrgios, Serena Williams, and Simona Halep have already said that they will skip the Games. Japan has recorded more than 815,440 COVID-19 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths. Recent rises in Tokyo have been particularly worrisome amid a vaccination rollout that got off to a slow start and has faced supply glitches after speeding up. Only about 28% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine. Tokyo recorded 502 new cases on Sunday, the 23rd straight day of week-on-week gains, and experts worry that the public has grown weary of restrictions, mostly voluntary, on activities. The coronavirus curbs include asking restaurants to close early and to stop serving alcohol in exchange for a government subsidy, measures that have hit the eateries hard and caused many to complain of unfairness as the Games are set to go ahead. Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is also in charge of the pandemic response, sparked outrage when he suggested late on Thursday he would ask banks to put pressure on eateries that do not comply with the stricter measures. In an about-face, the government's top spokesperson Kato said on Friday it had decided banks would not be asked to press restaurants and bars that do not follow the government request to stop serving alcohol under the emergency restrictions. On Monday, "Anyone but LDP or Komeito" was trending on Twitter, a reference to voting for political parties other than Suga's ruling Liberal Democratic Party or its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, in the coming parliamentary election. "I'm not a restaurateur, but this administration that couldn't come up with effective anti-coronavirus steps despite having a year to get ready for the Olympics... is no good," said one angry Twitter user.

Tokyo enters 4th COVID-19 emergency as Olympics approach

Japan&nbsp;issued evacuation requests to more than&nbsp;120,000&nbsp;residents in some&nbsp;southern&nbsp;prefectures due to&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rain&nbsp;on Saturday, NHK reported, just days after deadly landslides struck the seaside city of Atami southwest of Tokyo.

The&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;Meteorological Agency issued its highest&nbsp;rain&nbsp;alerts in three prefectures on Kyushu island, prompting some local governments to order residents to&nbsp;evacuate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-to-impose-virus-emergency-in-tokyo-during-olympics-reports-396505">Also read |&nbsp;Japan to impose virus emergency in Tokyo during Olympics: Reports</a>

A week ago&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rains lashed the resort city of Atami, triggering landslides that have killed at least nine people and left 20 missing.

Japan issued evacuation requests to more than 120,000 residents in some southern prefectures due to heavy rain on Saturday, NHK reported, just days after deadly landslides struck the seaside city of Atami southwest of Tokyo.

Japan issued evacuation requests to more than 120,000 residents in some southern prefectures due to heavy rain on Saturday, NHK reported, just days after deadly landslides struck the seaside city of Atami southwest of Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued its highest rain alerts in three prefectures on Kyushu island, prompting some local governments to order residents to evacuate. Also read | Japan to impose virus emergency in Tokyo during Olympics: Reports A week ago heavy rains lashed the resort city of Atami, triggering landslides that have killed at least nine people and left 20 missing.

Heavy rain hits southern Japan, over 120,000 ordered to evacuate

Japan is set to declare a state of emergency for Tokyo that will run through its hosting of the Olympics to try to contain a new wave of coronavirus infections, a key minister said on Thursday, as organisers consider banning all spectators from the Games. 
 
The move is the latest blow to the troubled Olympics, already once delayed because of the pandemic and plagued by a series of setbacks, including massive budget overruns. 
 
Medical experts have said for weeks that having no spectators at the Games would be the least risky option amid widespread public concern that the influx of thousands of athletes and officials will fuel a fresh wave of infections. 
 
Organisers have already banned overseas spectators and have for now set a cap on domestic viewers at 50% of capacity, up to 10,000 people. Talks to finalise the restrictions on the spectators are expected either on Thursday or on Friday. 
 
The so called five-way talks would be chaired by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach, who arrives in Tokyo on Thursday. Other participants include Tokyo and national governments and Paralympic officials. 
 
Whatever the outcome, those attending the Games have been asked to show their support by clapping rather than cheering or singing. Public viewing sites have been cancelled and companies, wary of public opposition, have been hesitant about advertising related to the Games, adding to a subdued mood in the Japanese capital. 
 
TOKYO INFECTIONS RISE 
 
Japan`s economy minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who heads the government`s coronavirus response, said a state of emergency in Tokyo is set to begin on July 12 and run through Aug 22. 
 
The Games are scheduled to run from July 23 to Aug. 8. 
 
Japan has not experienced the kind of explosive COVID-19 outbreaks seen in many other countries but has had more than 810,000 cases and 14,900 deaths. 
 
The imposition of the emergency comes after new daily infections in Tokyo, currently under slightly less strict "quasi emergency" curbs, rose to 920 on Wednesday, the highest level since mid-May. 
 
A slow vaccine rollout has meant only a quarter of Japan`s population has had at least one COVID-19 vaccination shot. 
 
Under the heightened restrictions, restaurants will be asked to stop serving alcohol, Nishimura said. 
 
The move is expected to be made official later on Thursday and followed by a news conference by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. 
 
Areas neighbouring Tokyo where some Olympic events are also slated to take place, such as Chiba and Kanagawa, are set to remain under "quasi emergency" through August 22. 
 
SPECTATORS 
 
Underscoring the last-minute nature of the preparations, organisers told Olympic sponsors on Wednesday they are anticipating two scenarios when Tokyo goes under the state of emergency: having no spectators or setting a 5,000-spectator cap, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters. 
 
In the no-spectator scenario, all sports and opening and closing ceremonies will likely be carried out without fans, including tickets allocated to the sponsors, the organisers told companies in online meetings. 
 
If the number of spectators is capped at 5,000 per venue, tickets allocated to Olympic sponsors would be halved, and organisers also expect any session after 9 p.m. would be staged without spectators, the source said. 
 
The lack of crowds may further strain the Games'&nbsp;budget, which has already blown out to an estimated $15.4 billion, with ticket revenues of around $815 million expected to take a big hit. 
 
The organising committee did not immediately respond to an e-mail seeking comment. 
 
Until this week, officials have insisted they could organise the Games safely with some spectators, but a ruling party setback in a Tokyo assembly election on Sunday, which some allies of Suga attributed to public anger over the Olympics, had forced the change of tack, sources said. 
 
Japan will hold a parliamentary election later this year and the government`s insistence that the Games - postponed last year as the virus spread around the world - should go ahead this year could cost it at the ballot box, they said.

Japan is set to declare a state of emergency for Tokyo that will run through its hosting of the Olympics to try to contain a new wave of coronavirus infections, a key minister said on Thursday, as organisers consider banning all spectators from the Games.

Japan is set to declare a state of emergency for Tokyo that will run through its hosting of the Olympics to try to contain a new wave of coronavirus infections, a key minister said on Thursday, as organisers consider banning all spectators from the Games. The move is the latest blow to the troubled Olympics, already once delayed because of the pandemic and plagued by a series of setbacks, including massive budget overruns. Medical experts have said for weeks that having no spectators at the Games would be the least risky option amid widespread public concern that the influx of thousands of athletes and officials will fuel a fresh wave of infections. Organisers have already banned overseas spectators and have for now set a cap on domestic viewers at 50% of capacity, up to 10,000 people. Talks to finalise the restrictions on the spectators are expected either on Thursday or on Friday. The so called five-way talks would be chaired by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach, who arrives in Tokyo on Thursday. Other participants include Tokyo and national governments and Paralympic officials. Whatever the outcome, those attending the Games have been asked to show their support by clapping rather than cheering or singing. Public viewing sites have been cancelled and companies, wary of public opposition, have been hesitant about advertising related to the Games, adding to a subdued mood in the Japanese capital. TOKYO INFECTIONS RISE Japan`s economy minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who heads the government`s coronavirus response, said a state of emergency in Tokyo is set to begin on July 12 and run through Aug 22. The Games are scheduled to run from July 23 to Aug. 8. Japan has not experienced the kind of explosive COVID-19 outbreaks seen in many other countries but has had more than 810,000 cases and 14,900 deaths. The imposition of the emergency comes after new daily infections in Tokyo, currently under slightly less strict "quasi emergency" curbs, rose to 920 on Wednesday, the highest level since mid-May. A slow vaccine rollout has meant only a quarter of Japan`s population has had at least one COVID-19 vaccination shot. Under the heightened restrictions, restaurants will be asked to stop serving alcohol, Nishimura said. The move is expected to be made official later on Thursday and followed by a news conference by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. Areas neighbouring Tokyo where some Olympic events are also slated to take place, such as Chiba and Kanagawa, are set to remain under "quasi emergency" through August 22. SPECTATORS Underscoring the last-minute nature of the preparations, organisers told Olympic sponsors on Wednesday they are anticipating two scenarios when Tokyo goes under the state of emergency: having no spectators or setting a 5,000-spectator cap, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters. In the no-spectator scenario, all sports and opening and closing ceremonies will likely be carried out without fans, including tickets allocated to the sponsors, the organisers told companies in online meetings. If the number of spectators is capped at 5,000 per venue, tickets allocated to Olympic sponsors would be halved, and organisers also expect any session after 9 p.m. would be staged without spectators, the source said. The lack of crowds may further strain the Games' budget, which has already blown out to an estimated $15.4 billion, with ticket revenues of around $815 million expected to take a big hit. The organising committee did not immediately respond to an e-mail seeking comment. Until this week, officials have insisted they could organise the Games safely with some spectators, but a ruling party setback in a Tokyo assembly election on Sunday, which some allies of Suga attributed to public anger over the Olympics, had forced the change of tack, sources said. Japan will hold a parliamentary election later this year and the government`s insistence that the Games - postponed last year as the virus spread around the world - should go ahead this year could cost it at the ballot box, they said.

Olympics without fans: Japan to declare COVID-19 emergency for Tokyo

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach showed up in Toyko&nbsp;this week and is distantly meeting with coordinators and Tokyo's lead representative, while he goes through three days in self-isolation.&nbsp;

Organizing council chief Seiko Hashimoto said a 'very difficult decision' needed to be made while Bach added he was prepared to help with any action.&nbsp;

"We have shown this responsibility since the day of the postponement and we will also show it today. We will support any measure which is necessary to have a safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Games for the Japanese people and all the participants," he said.

The Japanese government, who likewise affirmed Tokyo would be in another highly sensitive situation all through the Games due to flooding Covid numbers, had effectively restricted overseas spectators, who were relied upon to number 600,000.&nbsp;

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Although, it was trusted 10,000 local fans, up to 50 percent of venue limits, would, in any case, be permitted to join in.&nbsp;

However, executive Yoshihide Suga - &nbsp;whose handling of the pandemic has seen his prevalence droop ahead of elections in the not-so-distant future - was under expanding strain to solidify this methodology, following vocal resistance from the Japanese public and medical local area.&nbsp;

As of now his central pandemic guide had firmly cautioned any degree of onlookers risked transforming the Games into a super-spreader occasion.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, a few spectators will, in any case, be permitted with those classed as VIPs - including Games supports - arranged as fundamental 'coordinators', a move which has incited fierceness from conventional residents currently denied admittance for a Games that has cost an announced $15 billion.&nbsp;

Originals plans had 7.8 million tickets for events, with 4.4m effectively offered to Japanese occupants - which means the present choice is required to cost almost $1bn in pay on beginning projections.&nbsp;

It's 57 years since Tokyo last arranged the Games, the first Olympics broadcast globally. &nbsp;From that point forward the IOC has become a captive to TV rights, with 73% of their pay from broadcast deals, totaling almost $8 billion across rights holders including NBC and Discovery.&nbsp;

Also, the strain to arrange the Games for the TV cameras, if not spectators, has been an amazing driver in decision making.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach showed up in Toyko this week and is distantly meeting with coordinators and Tokyo's lead representative, while he goes through three days in self-isolation.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach showed up in Toyko this week and is distantly meeting with coordinators and Tokyo's lead representative, while he goes through three days in self-isolation. Organizing council chief Seiko Hashimoto said a 'very difficult decision' needed to be made while Bach added he was prepared to help with any action. "We have shown this responsibility since the day of the postponement and we will also show it today. We will support any measure which is necessary to have a safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Games for the Japanese people and all the participants," he said. The Japanese government, who likewise affirmed Tokyo would be in another highly sensitive situation all through the Games due to flooding Covid numbers, had effectively restricted overseas spectators, who were relied upon to number 600,000. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 scraps Olympic torch relay legs in capital Although, it was trusted 10,000 local fans, up to 50 percent of venue limits, would, in any case, be permitted to join in. However, executive Yoshihide Suga - whose handling of the pandemic has seen his prevalence droop ahead of elections in the not-so-distant future - was under expanding strain to solidify this methodology, following vocal resistance from the Japanese public and medical local area. As of now his central pandemic guide had firmly cautioned any degree of onlookers risked transforming the Games into a super-spreader occasion. Nonetheless, a few spectators will, in any case, be permitted with those classed as VIPs - including Games supports - arranged as fundamental 'coordinators', a move which has incited fierceness from conventional residents currently denied admittance for a Games that has cost an announced $15 billion. Originals plans had 7.8 million tickets for events, with 4.4m effectively offered to Japanese occupants - which means the present choice is required to cost almost $1bn in pay on beginning projections. It's 57 years since Tokyo last arranged the Games, the first Olympics broadcast globally. From that point forward the IOC has become a captive to TV rights, with 73% of their pay from broadcast deals, totaling almost $8 billion across rights holders including NBC and Discovery. Also, the strain to arrange the Games for the TV cameras, if not spectators, has been an amazing driver in decision making.

Tokyo Olympics to be held behind closed doors under state of emergency measures

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