Lindsey Vonn, the greatest women's skier of all-time, will be the host of the 2022 Laureus Awards Show in the picturesque Spanish city of Seville on Sunday, April 24, when the winners of this year's Laureus World Sports Awards are revealed.

First staged in 2000, the Laureus Awards celebrates the greatest achievements of individuals and teams across all sports.

The winners are chosen by the votes of the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy: the greatest sportsmen and women of today being saluted by the most illustrious legends of the past.

Lindsey Vonn was honoured by the Laureus Academy in 2019 when she was presented with the Laureus Spirit of Sport Award to mark the end of her remarkable career.

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In 2021 she became a member of the Laureus Academy.

"When I received the Laureus Spirit of Sport Award on my retirement in 2019, I remember saying I was sad to be leaving my sport but I was looking forward to the next chapter of my life and doing something incredible. That's exactly how I feel now to be the host for the 2022 Laureus World Sports Awards in the beautiful city of Seville. This is going to be an incredible night for myself and for all the winners of these very special awards," said Lindsey Vonn as per an official release.

"I know how emotional and uplifting it is to receive a Laureus Award and it's going to be so exciting to be part of the awards show in Seville. Although we can't host the nominees and winners in person this year, I have seen all the preparations for the virtual event. It's going to be a wonderful evening," she added.

In her career, Lindsey won four Overall World Cups - one of only three female skiers to do so - and a record eight World Cup Downhill titles.

In 2016, she won her 20th World Cup title, the overall record for men or women, surpassing Ingemar Stenmark of Sweden.

Her total of 82 World Cup race victories is a women's record. She was a winner in all five Alpine skiing disciplines.

She won the downhill gold medal at the Winter Olympics in 2010, where she also won bronze in the super-g, which led to her receiving the 2011 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award.

Despite breaking her right arm three months before and also suffering a back injury, she won a bronze in the downhill at the 2018 Winter Olympics.

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The Laureus Awards, which reflects sporting achievement during 2021, is the premier honours event on the international sporting calendar. The winners, in a variety of different categories, will be revealed in a 'virtual'&nbsp;format as a result of continuing uncertainty over the COVID pandemic.

Among the nominees, selected by a panel of more than 1,200 of the leading sports journalists and broadcasters in the world, are Tom Brady, Robert Lewandowski, Max Verstappen, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Emma McKeon, Emma Raducanu, Pedri, Simone Biles, Sky Brown, Mark Cavendish, Tom Daley, Marc Marquez, Diede De Groot, Marcel Hug, Carissa Moore and Momiji Nishiya.

Among those shortlisted for the Laureus Team of the Year Award are three football teams: European Championship winners Italy, Copa America winners Argentina, including Lionel Messi, and the Barcelona Women`s team which won the Champions League.

Lindsey Vonn, the greatest women's skier of all-time, will be the host of the 2022 Laureus Awards Show in the picturesque Spanish city of Seville on Sunday, April 24, when the winners of this year's Laureus World Sports Awards are revealed.

Lindsey Vonn, the greatest women's skier of all-time, will be the host of the 2022 Laureus Awards Show in the picturesque Spanish city of Seville on Sunday, April 24, when the winners of this year's Laureus World Sports Awards are revealed. First staged in 2000, the Laureus Awards celebrates the greatest achievements of individuals and teams across all sports. The winners are chosen by the votes of the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy: the greatest sportsmen and women of today being saluted by the most illustrious legends of the past. Lindsey Vonn was honoured by the Laureus Academy in 2019 when she was presented with the Laureus Spirit of Sport Award to mark the end of her remarkable career. ALSO READ: Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction In 2021 she became a member of the Laureus Academy. "When I received the Laureus Spirit of Sport Award on my retirement in 2019, I remember saying I was sad to be leaving my sport but I was looking forward to the next chapter of my life and doing something incredible. That's exactly how I feel now to be the host for the 2022 Laureus World Sports Awards in the beautiful city of Seville. This is going to be an incredible night for myself and for all the winners of these very special awards," said Lindsey Vonn as per an official release. "I know how emotional and uplifting it is to receive a Laureus Award and it's going to be so exciting to be part of the awards show in Seville. Although we can't host the nominees and winners in person this year, I have seen all the preparations for the virtual event. It's going to be a wonderful evening," she added. In her career, Lindsey won four Overall World Cups - one of only three female skiers to do so - and a record eight World Cup Downhill titles. In 2016, she won her 20th World Cup title, the overall record for men or women, surpassing Ingemar Stenmark of Sweden. Her total of 82 World Cup race victories is a women's record. She was a winner in all five Alpine skiing disciplines. She won the downhill gold medal at the Winter Olympics in 2010, where she also won bronze in the super-g, which led to her receiving the 2011 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award. Despite breaking her right arm three months before and also suffering a back injury, she won a bronze in the downhill at the 2018 Winter Olympics. ALSO READ: Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins The Laureus Awards, which reflects sporting achievement during 2021, is the premier honours event on the international sporting calendar. The winners, in a variety of different categories, will be revealed in a 'virtual' format as a result of continuing uncertainty over the COVID pandemic. Among the nominees, selected by a panel of more than 1,200 of the leading sports journalists and broadcasters in the world, are Tom Brady, Robert Lewandowski, Max Verstappen, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Emma McKeon, Emma Raducanu, Pedri, Simone Biles, Sky Brown, Mark Cavendish, Tom Daley, Marc Marquez, Diede De Groot, Marcel Hug, Carissa Moore and Momiji Nishiya. Among those shortlisted for the Laureus Team of the Year Award are three football teams: European Championship winners Italy, Copa America winners Argentina, including Lionel Messi, and the Barcelona Women`s team which won the Champions League.

Olympic great Lindsey Vonn to host Laureus Awards Show 2022 in Seville

The 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing attracted the smallest prime-time audience since NBC Universal began broadcasting the games, according to viewership figures released by the network, amid a period of changing TV viewing habits.

NBC said its nightly coverage of the Beijing games attracted an average of 11.4 million prime time viewers, a 42% drop from the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, which brought a total average audience of 19.8 million viewers.

The closing ceremony drew just under 7 million prime-time viewers, according to preliminary estimates from NBC, which is a unit of Comcast Corp.

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Its Peacock streaming service, however, logged its best 18-day period of usage during the games, attracting an average audience of 516,000 users in prime time, NBC said.

The service offered 2,800 hours of coverage, including highlight videos of high-profile athletes such as U.S. gold medalists Chloe Kim, Erin Jackson and Nathan Chen, replays of events and viewing organized by sport.

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USA Network, the NBCUniversal-owned cable network, attracted an average of 1.4 million prime-time viewers.

NBC Sports Chairman Pete Bevacqua issued a statement lauding the production team's efforts in the face of the "unprecedented challenges over the past six months."

Pandemic restrictions forced the competitions to take place in a bubble, leaving few spectators in the stands. The United States government staged a diplomatic boycott in protest of China`s human rights record.

The 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing attracted the smallest prime-time audience since NBC Universal began broadcasting the games, according to viewership figures released by the network, amid a period of changing TV viewing habits.

The 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing attracted the smallest prime-time audience since NBC Universal began broadcasting the games, according to viewership figures released by the network, amid a period of changing TV viewing habits. NBC said its nightly coverage of the Beijing games attracted an average of 11.4 million prime time viewers, a 42% drop from the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, which brought a total average audience of 19.8 million viewers. The closing ceremony drew just under 7 million prime-time viewers, according to preliminary estimates from NBC, which is a unit of Comcast Corp. ALSO READ: Alexander Zverev beat America's Jenson Brooksby in latest ever finish Its Peacock streaming service, however, logged its best 18-day period of usage during the games, attracting an average audience of 516,000 users in prime time, NBC said. The service offered 2,800 hours of coverage, including highlight videos of high-profile athletes such as U.S. gold medalists Chloe Kim, Erin Jackson and Nathan Chen, replays of events and viewing organized by sport. ALSO READ: AICF secretary Bharat Singh Chauhan 'not surprised' at Praggnanandhaa defeating world champion Magnus Carlsen USA Network, the NBCUniversal-owned cable network, attracted an average of 1.4 million prime-time viewers. NBC Sports Chairman Pete Bevacqua issued a statement lauding the production team's efforts in the face of the "unprecedented challenges over the past six months." Pandemic restrictions forced the competitions to take place in a bubble, leaving few spectators in the stands. The United States government staged a diplomatic boycott in protest of China`s human rights record.

NBC Universal draws worst Olympic ratings with Beijing Games 2022

Russian&nbsp;skating sensation Kamila Valieva tested positive for a banned substance, Games testers confirmed Friday, and the IOC is now appealing against Russia's decision to allow her to continue competing in Beijing.

The case will be decided by the Court of Arbitration for Sport before February 15, when the 15-year-old is scheduled to take part in the individual event at the Olympics, the International Testing Agency (ITA) said in a statement.

It is just the latest doping scandal surrounding&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;athletes in recent years at Olympic Games.

Valieva tested positive for trimetazidine, a metabolic agent that is prescribed for the treatment of angina and vertigo.&nbsp;

It is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency because it can increase blood flow efficiency and help endurance.

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The ITA said Valieva submitted a sample during the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;championships on December 25 but the positive test was not confirmed by an internationally accredited laboratory until February 8

By that time she had already taken part in the team skating competition at the Beijing Games and helped Russia to win after becoming the first woman in history to produce a quadruple jump at an Olympics.

Once the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;anti-doping agency (RUSADA) received the result, it provisionally suspended the teenager, a decision which would have ruled her out of the rest of the Olympics.

Valieva successfully challenged that decision and the ban was lifted on February 9. She was seen training in the Chinese capital on Friday.

Now the International Olympic Committee says it will challenge the decision to lift her suspension.

"Under the World Anti-Doping Code, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the International Skating Union (ISU), RUSADA and the IOC have a right to appeal the decision to lift the provisional suspension before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The IOC will exercise its right to appeal," the ITA said in a statement.

The confirmation that she failed a doping test explains why the medals ceremony for the figure skating team event has not taken place.

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Russian&nbsp;competitors are taking part in Beijing as the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;Olympic Committee (ROC) after the nation was banned because of a massive state-sponsored doping scheme at the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

IOC spokesman Mark Adams said in Beijing: "We want to expedite this as quickly as possible.

"It's very important for everyone involved, not least the 15-year-old athlete that is concerned, that we have due process, that it's seen to be done properly and that people can have confidence in the decisions that are taken.

"We are working as fast as we can under the circumstances to get that.

"Such cases are not helpful to the Games."

Russian skating sensation Kamila Valieva tested positive for a banned substance, Games testers confirmed Friday, and the IOC is now appealing against Russia's decision to allow her to continue competing in Beijing.

Russian skating sensation Kamila Valieva tested positive for a banned substance, Games testers confirmed Friday, and the IOC is now appealing against Russia's decision to allow her to continue competing in Beijing. The case will be decided by the Court of Arbitration for Sport before February 15, when the 15-year-old is scheduled to take part in the individual event at the Olympics, the International Testing Agency (ITA) said in a statement. It is just the latest doping scandal surrounding Russian athletes in recent years at Olympic Games. Valieva tested positive for trimetazidine, a metabolic agent that is prescribed for the treatment of angina and vertigo. It is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency because it can increase blood flow efficiency and help endurance. Also read | Inflation in US worsens, becomes highest in 40 years The ITA said Valieva submitted a sample during the Russian championships on December 25 but the positive test was not confirmed by an internationally accredited laboratory until February 8 By that time she had already taken part in the team skating competition at the Beijing Games and helped Russia to win after becoming the first woman in history to produce a quadruple jump at an Olympics. Once the Russian anti-doping agency (RUSADA) received the result, it provisionally suspended the teenager, a decision which would have ruled her out of the rest of the Olympics. Valieva successfully challenged that decision and the ban was lifted on February 9. She was seen training in the Chinese capital on Friday. Now the International Olympic Committee says it will challenge the decision to lift her suspension. "Under the World Anti-Doping Code, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the International Skating Union (ISU), RUSADA and the IOC have a right to appeal the decision to lift the provisional suspension before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The IOC will exercise its right to appeal," the ITA said in a statement. The confirmation that she failed a doping test explains why the medals ceremony for the figure skating team event has not taken place. Also read | 'Things could go crazy': Ukraine accuses Russia of 'hybrid war' amid naval drill Russian competitors are taking part in Beijing as the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after the nation was banned because of a massive state-sponsored doping scheme at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. IOC spokesman Mark Adams said in Beijing: "We want to expedite this as quickly as possible. "It's very important for everyone involved, not least the 15-year-old athlete that is concerned, that we have due process, that it's seen to be done properly and that people can have confidence in the decisions that are taken. "We are working as fast as we can under the circumstances to get that. "Such cases are not helpful to the Games."

Russian skater Valieva tested positive for banned drug: Olympic testers

American Nathan Chen achieved a spectacular redemption when he claimed the men's figure skating title in dazzling fashion at the Beijing Olympics, completing a four-year journey to the exhilarating tunes of Elton John on Thursday.

The 22-year-old, who left empty-handed after a meltdown in Pyeongchang in 2018, stood by the edge of the rink to soak up the atmosphere during warm-up and then skated carefreely to "Rocket Man" to add to his world record in the short programme for a total of 332.60.

Wearing a Vera Wang-designed orange and purple top decorated with stars in space in a nod to his medley of Elton John songs, Chen displayed power, grace and precision, effortlessly landing his quadruple jumps as he triggered some rare cheering from a usually near-silent crowd.

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Japan`s Yuma Kagiyama (310.05) was a distant second and fellow Japanese Shoma Uno (293.00) came third, but 'Rocket Chen'&nbsp;showed he was a class above as he landed his fourth quadruple jump.

"I never really thought that I'd be able to actually make it this far in my career. I'd always, of course, dreamed about making an Olympics and winning the Olympics, but I was like, that's hard, I don't know if I can make that happen," Chen said.

"I haven't really had time to process fully, but it's amazing so far."

Yuzuru Hanyu, who was hoping to win the event for the third time in a row, finished fourth on 283.21. All attention was on the Japanese great after his long-awaited, delayed arrival&nbsp;in Beijing, but the 27-year-old fell out of contention with a disastrous short programme.

He was also looking to become the first skater to land the quadruple Axel in competition but failed to deliver, falling again on a quadruple Salchow.

WELCOME RESPITE 
 
Hanyu, looking tired and at times struggling to steady his breath to contain his emotions, said he was disappointed at his failed attempt but that he had "given it his all".

"It wasn't fun at all," he said of his Olympic experience, describing it as painful and difficult.

Asked if he would compete at the world championships or keep attempting the '4A', he said, "I need some more time to think about it."

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Chen, coming into the Olympics having been defeated only once since his Pyeongchang setback, at last year's Skate America, delivered a masterclass to become the first American to win the men's title since Evan Lysacek in Vancouver in 2010.

Kagiyama, Uno and Hanyu watched in awe as Japan's double Olympic champion knew he would have to make way for Chen, who exited the ice showing unusual signs of jubilation.

"I think that I can't regret the performance I gave," said Uno, praising Chen`s class and consistency.

Chen's smile and gesture brought a welcome respite in an otherwise tense atmosphere at the Capital Indoor Stadium where the buzz was centred on day-old reports - still unconfirmed - that Russian Kamila Valieva, the 15-year-old gold medal favourite in the women's competition - had tested positive for a banned drug.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-medals-ceremony-of-figure-skating-team-event-won-by-russia-delayed-over-legal-issue-451686">Beijing Olympics: Medals ceremony of figure skating team event won by Russia delayed over legal issue</a>

Valieva was part of the six-person Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) team that won gold on Monday. Medals from that event have yet to be awarded with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) citing unspecified legal reasons for the delay.

She turned up for practice on an adjacent rink, before Chen's performance grabbed the attention, at least for a memorable four and a half minutes, and signalled the end of Hanyu's domination.

American Nathan Chen achieved a spectacular redemption when he claimed the men's figure skating title in dazzling fashion at the Beijing Olympics, completing a four-year journey to the exhilarating tunes of Elton John on Thursday.

American Nathan Chen achieved a spectacular redemption when he claimed the men's figure skating title in dazzling fashion at the Beijing Olympics, completing a four-year journey to the exhilarating tunes of Elton John on Thursday. The 22-year-old, who left empty-handed after a meltdown in Pyeongchang in 2018, stood by the edge of the rink to soak up the atmosphere during warm-up and then skated carefreely to "Rocket Man" to add to his world record in the short programme for a total of 332.60. Wearing a Vera Wang-designed orange and purple top decorated with stars in space in a nod to his medley of Elton John songs, Chen displayed power, grace and precision, effortlessly landing his quadruple jumps as he triggered some rare cheering from a usually near-silent crowd. ALSO READ: How the ‘Garlic Girls’ overcame abuse to return to the Olympics Japan`s Yuma Kagiyama (310.05) was a distant second and fellow Japanese Shoma Uno (293.00) came third, but 'Rocket Chen' showed he was a class above as he landed his fourth quadruple jump. "I never really thought that I'd be able to actually make it this far in my career. I'd always, of course, dreamed about making an Olympics and winning the Olympics, but I was like, that's hard, I don't know if I can make that happen," Chen said. "I haven't really had time to process fully, but it's amazing so far." Yuzuru Hanyu, who was hoping to win the event for the third time in a row, finished fourth on 283.21. All attention was on the Japanese great after his long-awaited, delayed arrival in Beijing, but the 27-year-old fell out of contention with a disastrous short programme. He was also looking to become the first skater to land the quadruple Axel in competition but failed to deliver, falling again on a quadruple Salchow. WELCOME RESPITE Hanyu, looking tired and at times struggling to steady his breath to contain his emotions, said he was disappointed at his failed attempt but that he had "given it his all". "It wasn't fun at all," he said of his Olympic experience, describing it as painful and difficult. Asked if he would compete at the world championships or keep attempting the '4A', he said, "I need some more time to think about it." ALSO READ: Korean dress controversy at Beijing Olympics: China denies 'cultural appropriation' after row Chen, coming into the Olympics having been defeated only once since his Pyeongchang setback, at last year's Skate America, delivered a masterclass to become the first American to win the men's title since Evan Lysacek in Vancouver in 2010. Kagiyama, Uno and Hanyu watched in awe as Japan's double Olympic champion knew he would have to make way for Chen, who exited the ice showing unusual signs of jubilation. "I think that I can't regret the performance I gave," said Uno, praising Chen`s class and consistency. Chen's smile and gesture brought a welcome respite in an otherwise tense atmosphere at the Capital Indoor Stadium where the buzz was centred on day-old reports - still unconfirmed - that Russian Kamila Valieva, the 15-year-old gold medal favourite in the women's competition - had tested positive for a banned drug. ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics: Medals ceremony of figure skating team event won by Russia delayed over legal issue Valieva was part of the six-person Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) team that won gold on Monday. Medals from that event have yet to be awarded with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) citing unspecified legal reasons for the delay. She turned up for practice on an adjacent rink, before Chen's performance grabbed the attention, at least for a memorable four and a half minutes, and signalled the end of Hanyu's domination.

Beijing Olympics 2022: Nathan Chen of US wins long-awaited skating gold

The upcoming Winter Games in China have been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately. &nbsp;

A Uyghur, who was a part of the group of students chosen to help carry the Olympic flame before the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, has been calling for a boycott of the upcoming Winter Games over China's treatment of Uyghur ethnic community. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kamalturk Yalqun, who was one of the torchbearers at the age of 17, is an activist in the United States now. He is currently living in exile in Boston. &nbsp;

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In an interview, Yalqun said, "It seems to me that our sense of global citizenship and sportsmanship is not moving forward with these Olympic Games anymore." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Yalqun had also attended the Games later as a representative of his home region of Xinjiang. He recalled being proud to participate in the Olympics, but the feelings vanished when his father disappeared. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Kamalturk Yalqun-Once a torchbearer now calls for boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022

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Yalqun had moved to the United States for graduate school in 2014 and has stayed since then. He has been joining protests in Boston regularly for boycotting the Winter Games. &nbsp;

Yalqun is disappointed with only the diplomatic boycott as he wants a full boycott of these games. &nbsp;

"It should be a collective responsibility when such kind of atrocities are happening. It's heartbreaking for me to see such a cold response from people," he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The upcoming Winter Games in China have been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately. A Uyghur, who was a part of the group of students chosen to help carry the Olympic flame before the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, has been calling for a boycott of the upcoming Winter Games over China's treatment of Uyghur ethnic community.

The upcoming Winter Games in China have been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately. A Uyghur, who was a part of the group of students chosen to help carry the Olympic flame before the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, has been calling for a boycott of the upcoming Winter Games over China's treatment of Uyghur ethnic community. Kamalturk Yalqun, who was one of the torchbearers at the age of 17, is an activist in the United States now. He is currently living in exile in Boston. Also Read | Had voiced concerns over China intimidating neighbours: US on Galwan row In an interview, Yalqun said, "It seems to me that our sense of global citizenship and sportsmanship is not moving forward with these Olympic Games anymore." Yalqun had also attended the Games later as a representative of his home region of Xinjiang. He recalled being proud to participate in the Olympics, but the feelings vanished when his father disappeared. Watch: Kamalturk Yalqun-Once a torchbearer now calls for boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 × Yalqun had moved to the United States for graduate school in 2014 and has stayed since then. He has been joining protests in Boston regularly for boycotting the Winter Games. Yalqun is disappointed with only the diplomatic boycott as he wants a full boycott of these games. "It should be a collective responsibility when such kind of atrocities are happening. It's heartbreaking for me to see such a cold response from people," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Uyghur torchbearer in 2008 Olympics calls for Winter Games' boycott in Beijing

Germany will compete without their figure skating pairs in the team event at the Olympics after Nolan Seegert tested positive for COVID-19 a second time and was isolating in a hotel, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) said on Thursday.

Seegert was on the roster with partner Minerva Fabienne Hase for the team competition starting at the Beijing Games on Friday.

"Team Germany will compete in the team event but without the pair," the DOSB said in an email to Reuters. "This way, the other team members will test the ice in a competition and will get some experience before their individual events."

Hase trained alone at a practice facility in Beijing on Thursday. She said they would have to wait and see whether they could take part in the pairs event starting on Feb. 18.

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"Nolan is so far symptom-free," Hase told reporters after her training session. "Of course it was a shock for me as well. We were careful. I struggle a bit right now. I will try to get back on track in the next days."

The pair ranked third in the 2019/20 Grand Prix and fifth in the European Championships in 2020. 
A number of athletes have been ruled out of the Feb. 4-20 Games after testing positive on arrival at the airport, while others who are asymptomatic are isolating.

Italian pair Rebecca Ghilardi and Filippo Ambrosini said they were sad to see competitors affected by the virus and were taking measures to prevent a similar ordeal happening to them.

"It`s a hard situation," Ghilardi said. You try to be safe as much as you can. Since Christmas we are in our bubble."

Germany will compete without their figure skating pairs in the team event at the Olympics after Nolan Seegert tested positive for COVID-19 a second time and was isolating in a hotel, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) said on Thursday.

Germany will compete without their figure skating pairs in the team event at the Olympics after Nolan Seegert tested positive for COVID-19 a second time and was isolating in a hotel, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) said on Thursday. Seegert was on the roster with partner Minerva Fabienne Hase for the team competition starting at the Beijing Games on Friday. "Team Germany will compete in the team event but without the pair," the DOSB said in an email to Reuters. "This way, the other team members will test the ice in a competition and will get some experience before their individual events." Hase trained alone at a practice facility in Beijing on Thursday. She said they would have to wait and see whether they could take part in the pairs event starting on Feb. 18. Read Also | Winter Olympics, Curling competition: Britain, China claim victories as Beijing action gets under way "Nolan is so far symptom-free," Hase told reporters after her training session. "Of course it was a shock for me as well. We were careful. I struggle a bit right now. I will try to get back on track in the next days." The pair ranked third in the 2019/20 Grand Prix and fifth in the European Championships in 2020. A number of athletes have been ruled out of the Feb. 4-20 Games after testing positive on arrival at the airport, while others who are asymptomatic are isolating. Italian pair Rebecca Ghilardi and Filippo Ambrosini said they were sad to see competitors affected by the virus and were taking measures to prevent a similar ordeal happening to them. "It`s a hard situation," Ghilardi said. You try to be safe as much as you can. Since Christmas we are in our bubble."

Beijing Olympics: COVID pulls out German Nolan Seegert from figure skating event

Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Deon Lendore has died aged 29 in a car accident in Texas, USA. The 400-meter sprinter competed in 3 Olympics -- including the 2020 Tokyo games -- and won the bronze medal in the 4x400 meter at the 2012 games in London.

The Texas Department of Public Safety told TMZ, Lendore was driving westbound on FM 485 in Milam County in his 2015 Volkswagen Jetta on Monday, when it crossed over the center line and "sideswiped a vehicle" coming the opposite way.

Texas DPS said Lendore was pronounced dead at the scene. Lendore also won silver in the World 4x400m in 2015. The one-lap sprinter also excelled indoors, winning three bronze medals at the World Indoor Championships.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/shouldnt-be-using-these-words-saina-nehwal-reacts-as-actor-siddharth-apologies-for-his-rude-joke-444063">'Shouldn't be using these words....' - Saina Nehwal reacts as actor Siddharth apologies for his 'rude joke'</a>

Two-time Olympian Gwen Berry wrote took to social media and wrote: "Wow... Rest in Power. "One thing I learned last year was the importance of LIVING," Berry said and added, "do what you want... deal with what you want... love who you want. Don`t DIE just to LIVE. You LIVE then DIE.. I`ve been happier ever since."&nbsp;

Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Deon Lendore has died aged 29 in a car accident in Texas, USA. The 400-meter sprinter competed in 3 Olympics -- including the 2020 Tokyo games -- and won the bronze medal in the 4x400 meter at the 2012 games in London.

Trinidad and Tobago Olympian Deon Lendore has died aged 29 in a car accident in Texas, USA. The 400-meter sprinter competed in 3 Olympics -- including the 2020 Tokyo games -- and won the bronze medal in the 4x400 meter at the 2012 games in London. The Texas Department of Public Safety told TMZ, Lendore was driving westbound on FM 485 in Milam County in his 2015 Volkswagen Jetta on Monday, when it crossed over the center line and "sideswiped a vehicle" coming the opposite way. Texas DPS said Lendore was pronounced dead at the scene. Lendore also won silver in the World 4x400m in 2015. The one-lap sprinter also excelled indoors, winning three bronze medals at the World Indoor Championships. Read Also | 'Shouldn't be using these words....' - Saina Nehwal reacts as actor Siddharth apologies for his 'rude joke' Two-time Olympian Gwen Berry wrote took to social media and wrote: "Wow... Rest in Power. "One thing I learned last year was the importance of LIVING," Berry said and added, "do what you want... deal with what you want... love who you want. Don`t DIE just to LIVE. You LIVE then DIE.. I`ve been happier ever since."

Three-time Olympic and World medallist sprinter Deon Lendore passes away in car accident in Texas

Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa has come out as gay, saying her success at the Tokyo Games earlier this year gave her the strength to make her sexual orientation public.

The 23-year-old boxer won bronze in the women's featherweight category at Tokyo 2020. She previously competed at Rio 2016 where she lost in the quarter-finals while she also won gold in the 2019 European Championships.

"The people who are close to me have known for years but I think it is right to tell everyone now," she told the Italian edition of Vanity Fair.

"Speaking of sexual orientation in the world of sport has a special value, because champions are expected to be perfect. And for many homosexuality is still an imperfection.

"Many athletes stay silent and hide away for fear of damaging their image. For me, too, it was like that up to a few months ago. But that medal in Tokyo has become my shield - now that Irma the athlete is secure, Irma the woman can be sincere."

Testa follows the likes of Britain's double Olympic gold medallist Nicola Adams and Ireland's Olympic lightweight champion Kellie Harrington in becoming an openly gay female boxer.

More than 160 openly LGBTQ athletes competed in Tokyo, making it the most inclusive Games ever held.

Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa has come out as gay, saying her success at the Tokyo Games earlier this year gave her the strength to make her sexual orientation public.

Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa has come out as gay, saying her success at the Tokyo Games earlier this year gave her the strength to make her sexual orientation public. The 23-year-old boxer won bronze in the women's featherweight category at Tokyo 2020. She previously competed at Rio 2016 where she lost in the quarter-finals while she also won gold in the 2019 European Championships. "The people who are close to me have known for years but I think it is right to tell everyone now," she told the Italian edition of Vanity Fair. "Speaking of sexual orientation in the world of sport has a special value, because champions are expected to be perfect. And for many homosexuality is still an imperfection. "Many athletes stay silent and hide away for fear of damaging their image. For me, too, it was like that up to a few months ago. But that medal in Tokyo has become my shield - now that Irma the athlete is secure, Irma the woman can be sincere." Testa follows the likes of Britain's double Olympic gold medallist Nicola Adams and Ireland's Olympic lightweight champion Kellie Harrington in becoming an openly gay female boxer. More than 160 openly LGBTQ athletes competed in Tokyo, making it the most inclusive Games ever held.

Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa comes out as gay

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics.

"I am safe and they are in the process of deciding where I am going to spend the night," Timanovskaya said in a statement on Telegram published by the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), an organisation that supports opposition athletes.

The 24-year-old said team officials had tried to remove her from Japan after she criticised Belarus's athletics federation for entering her into a &nbsp;relay race in Tokyo without giving her notice.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-another-medal-for-india-pv-sindhu-batters-chinas-he-to-win-bronze-402223" hreflang="en">Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze</a>

"It turns out our great bosses as always decided everything for us," she had said on her Instagram stories that are no longer available.

Tsimanouskaya later said in a separate Instagram post that she wouldn't have "reacted so harshly if I had been told in advance, explained the whole situation and asked if I was able to run 400 metres."

"But they decided to do everything behind my back," she added.

The BSSF said Belarus officials had tried to "deport" Timanovskaya.

The group said earlier that the sprinter, who had been due to compete in the women's 200 metres heats in the Olympic Stadium on Monday, was at a Tokyo airport with Belarusian team officials and posted a video in which the athlete appealed to the International Olympic Committee.

"I am under pressure and they are trying to take me out of the country without my consent. I ask the International Olympic Committee to interfere," Timanovskaya said in the video.

Later opposition group issued the statement confirming she was safe.

The Belarusian Olympic Committee had claimed that Timanovskaya left the Tokyo Games on medical advice because of her "emotional and psychological state".

But, speaking through the BSSF, Timanovskaya said that claim was "not true" and said she had not been examined by doctors.

The IOC said in a statement to AFP: "The IOC has seen the reports in the media, is looking into the situation and has asked the NOC (Belarus Olympic officials) for clarification."&nbsp;

BSSF was founded last August by retired Belarusian swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia, as protests erupted after the disputed re-election of strongman President Alexander Lukashenko.

Herasimenia -- who now lives in exile in Lithuania -- sold her 2012 world championship gold medal to raise funds for the foundation.

It provides financial and legal assistance to athletes targeted by the authorities after calling for an end to the violent police crackdown on demonstrators.

The turmoil has led to Belarus being stripped of hosting this year's ice hockey world championship and a ban on Lukashenko attending Olympic events.

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics.

Belarusian athlete Kristina Timanovskaya said Sunday she was "safe" and under police protection in Japan after claiming her country had forced her to leave the Tokyo Olympics. "I am safe and they are in the process of deciding where I am going to spend the night," Timanovskaya said in a statement on Telegram published by the Belarusian Sport Solidarity Foundation (BSSF), an organisation that supports opposition athletes. The 24-year-old said team officials had tried to remove her from Japan after she criticised Belarus's athletics federation for entering her into a relay race in Tokyo without giving her notice. Also read | Olympics: Another medal for India, PV Sindhu batters China's He to win bronze "It turns out our great bosses as always decided everything for us," she had said on her Instagram stories that are no longer available. Tsimanouskaya later said in a separate Instagram post that she wouldn't have "reacted so harshly if I had been told in advance, explained the whole situation and asked if I was able to run 400 metres." "But they decided to do everything behind my back," she added. The BSSF said Belarus officials had tried to "deport" Timanovskaya. The group said earlier that the sprinter, who had been due to compete in the women's 200 metres heats in the Olympic Stadium on Monday, was at a Tokyo airport with Belarusian team officials and posted a video in which the athlete appealed to the International Olympic Committee. "I am under pressure and they are trying to take me out of the country without my consent. I ask the International Olympic Committee to interfere," Timanovskaya said in the video. Later opposition group issued the statement confirming she was safe. The Belarusian Olympic Committee had claimed that Timanovskaya left the Tokyo Games on medical advice because of her "emotional and psychological state". But, speaking through the BSSF, Timanovskaya said that claim was "not true" and said she had not been examined by doctors. The IOC said in a statement to AFP: "The IOC has seen the reports in the media, is looking into the situation and has asked the NOC (Belarus Olympic officials) for clarification." BSSF was founded last August by retired Belarusian swimmer Aliaksandra Herasimenia, as protests erupted after the disputed re-election of strongman President Alexander Lukashenko. Herasimenia -- who now lives in exile in Lithuania -- sold her 2012 world championship gold medal to raise funds for the foundation. It provides financial and legal assistance to athletes targeted by the authorities after calling for an end to the violent police crackdown on demonstrators. The turmoil has led to Belarus being stripped of hosting this year's ice hockey world championship and a ban on Lukashenko attending Olympic events.

Belarus Olympic athlete Kristina Timanovskaya says she is 'safe': NGO

Saeid Mollaei, a former Iranian judoka who now competes for Mongolia, won silver in the men's 81-kilogram event, losing gold to Japan's Takanori Nagase.&nbsp;

Mollaei, who was born in Iran but now represents Mongolia, dedicated his silver medal to Israel.

Since 1985, Iran and Israel have been involved in a proxy war.&nbsp;

Mollaei expressed his gratitude to Israel for its support over the years to the Israeli Sports Channel.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-thought-i-had-won-the-bout-couldnt-believe-that-i-lost-says-mc-mary-kom-401541">Tokyo Olympics: 'Thought I had won the bout, couldn't believe that I lost', says MC Mary Kom</a>

“Thank you to Israel for the good energy. This medal is dedicated also to Israel,” he told the network. “I hope the Israelis are happy with this win.”

He added in Hebrew: “Todah” (thank you).

Mollaei won his first Olympic medal two years after leaving Iran, saying that his national team coaches had instructed him to lose in the semifinals of the 2019 World Championships in Tokyo so he wouldn't have to compete against Israel's Sagi Muki in the final.

Mollaei then relocated to Germany, where he obtained Mongolian citizenship.&nbsp;

The International Judo Federation suspended Iran from the event for four years this year, calling its tampering "a significant breach and blatant violation of the IJF's statutes, legitimate interests, values, and aims."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Saeid Mollaei, a former Iranian judoka who now competes for Mongolia, won silver in the men's 81-kilogram event, losing gold to Japan's Takanori Nagase. Mollaei, who was born in Iran but now represents Mongolia, dedicated his silver medal to Israel.

Saeid Mollaei, a former Iranian judoka who now competes for Mongolia, won silver in the men's 81-kilogram event, losing gold to Japan's Takanori Nagase. Mollaei, who was born in Iran but now represents Mongolia, dedicated his silver medal to Israel. Since 1985, Iran and Israel have been involved in a proxy war. Mollaei expressed his gratitude to Israel for its support over the years to the Israeli Sports Channel. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: 'Thought I had won the bout, couldn't believe that I lost', says MC Mary Kom “Thank you to Israel for the good energy. This medal is dedicated also to Israel,” he told the network. “I hope the Israelis are happy with this win.” He added in Hebrew: “Todah” (thank you). Mollaei won his first Olympic medal two years after leaving Iran, saying that his national team coaches had instructed him to lose in the semifinals of the 2019 World Championships in Tokyo so he wouldn't have to compete against Israel's Sagi Muki in the final. Mollaei then relocated to Germany, where he obtained Mongolian citizenship. The International Judo Federation suspended Iran from the event for four years this year, calling its tampering "a significant breach and blatant violation of the IJF's statutes, legitimate interests, values, and aims." (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian defector Saeid Mollaei wins silver for Mongolia, dedicates medal to Israel

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead.

The storm made landfall in Japan's Miyagi region in the north shortly before 6 am local time (2100 GMT)&nbsp;

The storm is passing south of Morioka city in Iwate prefecture, bringing "strong" but not "violent" winds of 90 kilometres (56 miles) per hour, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Football matches are being held in Miyagi on Wednesday. Organisers said that they would not be affected.

Heavy rain prompted some towns in Iwate to issue landslide warnings and a number of local train services were suspended, but not bullet trains.

The storm is projected to weaken as it travels northwest and out into the Sea of Japan by early evening.

On Tuesday, wind and rain to parts of Japan's east coast made conditions challenging at women's triathlon in Tokyo.

Organisers rescheduled some rowing and archery events over concerns about high winds and brought forward the final rounds of the surfing competitions to take advantage of the waves.

Japan's typhoon season runs from around May to October, peaking in August and September.

In 2019, Typhoon Hagibis smashed into Japan as it hosted the Rugby World Cup, killing more than 100 people.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead.

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead. The storm made landfall in Japan's Miyagi region in the north shortly before 6 am local time (2100 GMT) The storm is passing south of Morioka city in Iwate prefecture, bringing "strong" but not "violent" winds of 90 kilometres (56 miles) per hour, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Football matches are being held in Miyagi on Wednesday. Organisers said that they would not be affected. Heavy rain prompted some towns in Iwate to issue landslide warnings and a number of local train services were suspended, but not bullet trains. The storm is projected to weaken as it travels northwest and out into the Sea of Japan by early evening. On Tuesday, wind and rain to parts of Japan's east coast made conditions challenging at women's triathlon in Tokyo. Organisers rescheduled some rowing and archery events over concerns about high winds and brought forward the final rounds of the surfing competitions to take advantage of the waves. Japan's typhoon season runs from around May to October, peaking in August and September. In 2019, Typhoon Hagibis smashed into Japan as it hosted the Rugby World Cup, killing more than 100 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan

Two athletes have tested positive for the coronavirus in the Tokyo Olympic Village after a team colleague was also infected, officials said on Sunday, raising fears of a cluster just days before the opening ceremony.

The first cases involving athletes in the Village come a day after a member of their entourage returned the first positive test in the complex, which will house thousands of athletes.

The three infections were revealed as competitors fly in from around the world for the pandemic-delayed&nbsp;Olympics, which are facing significant opposition in Japan due to their Covid risks.

Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya said the three cases "were from the same country and sport". They are "isolated in their rooms and Tokyo 2020 is delivering meals to them", he said, adding that the rest of the team have also been tested. The team was not identified.

The Olympic Village, a complex of apartments and dining areas in Tokyo, will house 6,700 athletes and officials at its peak when the delayed 2020 Games finally get underway.

The Tokyo Games, which will be held largely behind closed doors to prevent infections, are unpopular in Japan where opinion polls have consistently demonstrated a lack of support.

Olympic officials have been at pains to play down the health risks of the Games, which are taking place in stringent anti-coronavirus conditions with athletes tested daily.

"Mingling and crossing of populations is very limited. We keep the risk to an absolute minimum level," Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi said on Sunday.

"We can ensure that transmission between the various groups is almost impossible."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unprecedented-spate-in-us-shootings-leave-several-dead-multiple-injured-398771">Also read |&nbsp;Unprecedented spate in US shootings leave several dead, multiple injured&nbsp;</a>

Fifty-five cases linked to the Games, which open on Friday, have been discovered this month, including four athletes.

On Saturday, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach appealed for Japanese fans to show support, saying he was "very well aware of the scepticism" surrounding the Games.

'Extra strain'

Athletes are arriving to find a restrictive environment, with daily testing, social distancing and no movement possible outside the Olympic "bubble". They are under orders to leave Japan 48 hours after their event.

In another example of the difficulties, Australia's entire athletics team was quarantined before departure after a member of their entourage returned an inconclusive test. The official later tested negative.

"We expect that there'll be cases associated with these Games and really what's going to matter is how we respond to that and to ensure that there's no complacency," said David Hughes, medical director of the Australian Olympic team.

Australia has 194 athletes in the Olympic Village backed by support staff including psychologists to help them deal with the "extra strain" of the anti-Covid measures.

Australian basketball star Liz Cambage was one of the athletes to pull out of the Games, citing mental health fears, while tennis player Nick Kyrgios withdrew due to the lack of fans.

Australian chef de mission Ian Chesterman said a "buoyant" mood in the camp was tempered by caution over possible mental health problems in the unusual environment.

"The mood and everything is sort of buoyant and excited to be here, and that we're conscious of the fact that it's like no other," he said.

"We have to make sure that athlete, mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of all their thinking."

On Saturday, Games chief Seiko Hashimoto admitted athletes are "probably very worried" about coming to Japan, pledging full transparency over Covid cases.

Japanese and Olympic officials have also been forced onto the defensive over a welcoming reception for Bach attended by 40 people while Tokyo remains under a coronavirus state of emergency.

Two athletes have tested positive for the coronavirus in the Tokyo Olympic Village after a team colleague was also infected, officials said on Sunday, raising fears of a cluster just days before the opening ceremony.

Two athletes have tested positive for the coronavirus in the Tokyo Olympic Village after a team colleague was also infected, officials said on Sunday, raising fears of a cluster just days before the opening ceremony. The first cases involving athletes in the Village come a day after a member of their entourage returned the first positive test in the complex, which will house thousands of athletes. The three infections were revealed as competitors fly in from around the world for the pandemic-delayed Olympics, which are facing significant opposition in Japan due to their Covid risks. Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya said the three cases "were from the same country and sport". They are "isolated in their rooms and Tokyo 2020 is delivering meals to them", he said, adding that the rest of the team have also been tested. The team was not identified. The Olympic Village, a complex of apartments and dining areas in Tokyo, will house 6,700 athletes and officials at its peak when the delayed 2020 Games finally get underway. The Tokyo Games, which will be held largely behind closed doors to prevent infections, are unpopular in Japan where opinion polls have consistently demonstrated a lack of support. Olympic officials have been at pains to play down the health risks of the Games, which are taking place in stringent anti-coronavirus conditions with athletes tested daily. "Mingling and crossing of populations is very limited. We keep the risk to an absolute minimum level," Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi said on Sunday. "We can ensure that transmission between the various groups is almost impossible." Also read | Unprecedented spate in US shootings leave several dead, multiple injured Fifty-five cases linked to the Games, which open on Friday, have been discovered this month, including four athletes. On Saturday, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach appealed for Japanese fans to show support, saying he was "very well aware of the scepticism" surrounding the Games. 'Extra strain' Athletes are arriving to find a restrictive environment, with daily testing, social distancing and no movement possible outside the Olympic "bubble". They are under orders to leave Japan 48 hours after their event. In another example of the difficulties, Australia's entire athletics team was quarantined before departure after a member of their entourage returned an inconclusive test. The official later tested negative. "We expect that there'll be cases associated with these Games and really what's going to matter is how we respond to that and to ensure that there's no complacency," said David Hughes, medical director of the Australian Olympic team. Australia has 194 athletes in the Olympic Village backed by support staff including psychologists to help them deal with the "extra strain" of the anti-Covid measures. Australian basketball star Liz Cambage was one of the athletes to pull out of the Games, citing mental health fears, while tennis player Nick Kyrgios withdrew due to the lack of fans. Australian chef de mission Ian Chesterman said a "buoyant" mood in the camp was tempered by caution over possible mental health problems in the unusual environment. "The mood and everything is sort of buoyant and excited to be here, and that we're conscious of the fact that it's like no other," he said. "We have to make sure that athlete, mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of all their thinking." On Saturday, Games chief Seiko Hashimoto admitted athletes are "probably very worried" about coming to Japan, pledging full transparency over Covid cases. Japanese and Olympic officials have also been forced onto the defensive over a welcoming reception for Bach attended by 40 people while Tokyo remains under a coronavirus state of emergency.

Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village

MOCCO, Olympic puppet, arrives in Tokyo from Tohoku

Protecting the integrity of sport at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, is a top priority for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) thus the IOC Executive Board (EB) was updated on Saturday about the measures put in place for Games time -- aimed at both preventing and dealing swiftly with competition manipulation.Sports betting on all Olympic competitions have been monitored since the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008, and Tokyo 2020 will be no exception.&nbsp;

The Olympic Movement Unit on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions (OM Unit PMC), with its partners -- namely Sportradar, the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), the Global Lottery Monitoring System (GLMS), major regulating authorities, and a large number of private sports betting companies from around the world -- will monitor sports betting on all Olympic competitions at this summer`s Olympic Games.The IOC will retain a direct link with all International Federations (IFs) in order to flag any breach of the Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions (OM Code PMC). It is equipped to carry out a preliminary investigation and assist with the set-up of a Disciplinary Commission if necessary. In addition, the IOC will cooperate closely with various law enforcement authorities to address any cases where collective and joint follow-up is appropriate and necessary.

Paquerette Girard Zappelli, IOC Chief Ethics, and Compliance Officer said in a release: "During the last years, we have been working with Tokyo 2020, international police forces, and national authorities to set up the necessary processes and coordinate actions for Games time. &nbsp;As a sports organisation, the IOC can deal with disciplinary matters related to the Olympic Games, and we will have in place a dedicated Disciplinary Commission for cases of competition manipulation and other integrity breaches. For all criminal and security matters, we will of course rely on the Japanese authorities and their jurisdiction."

Following PyeongChang 2018, this is the second Games edition where all the measures outlined will be overseen by the dedicated OM Unit PMC, set up by the IOC in 2017 and an integral part of the IOC Ethics and Compliance Office. This Unit oversees the implementation of the Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions, which forms part of the Olympic Charter. It aims to provide sports organisations with harmonised regulations to protect all competitions from the risk of manipulation and support them to develop effective activities against the threat.

Protecting the integrity of sport at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, is a top priority for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) thus the IOC Executive Board (EB) was updated on Saturday about the measures put in place for Games time -- aimed at both preventing and dealing swiftly with competition manipulation.

Protecting the integrity of sport at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, is a top priority for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) thus the IOC Executive Board (EB) was updated on Saturday about the measures put in place for Games time -- aimed at both preventing and dealing swiftly with competition manipulation.Sports betting on all Olympic competitions have been monitored since the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008, and Tokyo 2020 will be no exception. The Olympic Movement Unit on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions (OM Unit PMC), with its partners -- namely Sportradar, the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), the Global Lottery Monitoring System (GLMS), major regulating authorities, and a large number of private sports betting companies from around the world -- will monitor sports betting on all Olympic competitions at this summer`s Olympic Games.The IOC will retain a direct link with all International Federations (IFs) in order to flag any breach of the Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions (OM Code PMC). It is equipped to carry out a preliminary investigation and assist with the set-up of a Disciplinary Commission if necessary. In addition, the IOC will cooperate closely with various law enforcement authorities to address any cases where collective and joint follow-up is appropriate and necessary. Paquerette Girard Zappelli, IOC Chief Ethics, and Compliance Officer said in a release: "During the last years, we have been working with Tokyo 2020, international police forces, and national authorities to set up the necessary processes and coordinate actions for Games time. As a sports organisation, the IOC can deal with disciplinary matters related to the Olympic Games, and we will have in place a dedicated Disciplinary Commission for cases of competition manipulation and other integrity breaches. For all criminal and security matters, we will of course rely on the Japanese authorities and their jurisdiction." Following PyeongChang 2018, this is the second Games edition where all the measures outlined will be overseen by the dedicated OM Unit PMC, set up by the IOC in 2017 and an integral part of the IOC Ethics and Compliance Office. This Unit oversees the implementation of the Olympic Movement Code on the Prevention of the Manipulation of Competitions, which forms part of the Olympic Charter. It aims to provide sports organisations with harmonised regulations to protect all competitions from the risk of manipulation and support them to develop effective activities against the threat.

Tokyo 2020: IOC to monitor sports betting on all Olympic competitions

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

Judo emerged in Japan as a modern martial art form which has since then evolved into an Olympic sport. Watch this segment to know how Judo uniforms are made.

How are Judo uniforms made? Minimum effort for maximum efficiency

The Coronavirus Pandemic forced the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Games by exactly a year and India's shooters bore the brunt of that move. The Indian shooting team famously drew a blank at the 2016 Olympics in Rio and the National Rifle Association of India, NRAI, was pinning its hopes on redemption at Tokyo.

The Coronavirus Pandemic forced the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Games by exactly a year and India's shooters bore the brunt of that move. The Indian shooting team famously drew a blank at the 2016 Olympics in Rio and the National Rifle Association of India, NRAI, was pinning its hopes on redemption at Tokyo. India's shooters dominated the international shooting calendar in 2019 and the expectations were high from a youthful team. With the pandemic still raging in India, national camps are still not being held and international competitions have been written off. NRAI President Raninder Singh spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on the way forward for his team and the rocky road to Tokyo 2021. Digvijay Singh Deo: Raninder thank you for joining us, you have been up in the mountains since march and while that is definitely a safe place a busy man like you must be finding it difficult to sit at one place. Raninder Singh: I have been keeping busy, we have been helping the Punjab government in the fight against the coronavirus. We have helped publish two research papers on how to counter the spread and hopefully, it will aid the Punjab government in controlling the disease. This period has been a great learning experience for me. DSD: I have been told that you are in touch with your coaches and players on a regular basis so straight up Raninder when can camps begin again? Raninder Singh: Given today's circumstances, I don't know when that will be possible. Anyone who says otherwise would be irresponsible in making such a statement. It is very unfortunate that the Olympics have been postponed because I believe that our shooters were prepared to surpass all expectations at the 2020 Tokyo games. Nonetheless, nothing is lost, a year's delay shouldn't make that much of a difference. The talent is still there and we must ensure that they remain fit. In terms of shooting this year in India, as things stand, it is very unlikely that domestic competitions will take place. The executive board of the NRAI will hold a meeting later this month and further discuss the possibility of holding national camps. Fortunately, we have plenty of time before the Olympics. Shooting is not a power sport where you need intense muscular training. Our shooters are very professional and they are working with their coaches and physios. Fortunately, most of our athletes have some shooting facility at home. We are looking to begin a camp for the Olympic squad and the plan should be finalised on July 15. The Olympic squad has been announced and we want to put them in the best position to excel at next year's games. I don't think we will see full-fledged international competitions this year because of various constraints that have been imposed by the IOC and governing bodies. However, the NRAI has proposed the holding of bilateral series to keep our shooters in touch with the sport in the lead up to the Olympics, this will depend on the rules that the government of India has in place. All federations and athletes will have to adapt to the new normal now, there is no other choice. I can assure you, if the Olympic games are held next year, our athletes will be in the best possible physical and mental shape to compete. DSD: You have made it clear that you do not want your shooters to train abroad but surely things change post this pandemic. If training is happening in Europe or Australia why not have a quarantine camp there to ensure your shooters are in the thick of it. There are costs obviously but considering no travel has happened this year isn't that something that can be looked at. Raninder Singh: It does make sense theoretically to send the shooters abroad, but it is not feasible. I cannot put the health of our shooters at risk while they are representing India. One cannot afford to take the coronavirus lightly. What the NRAI is trying to organise is a highly controlled and quarantined camp for the shooters. It is not practical to send our shooters abroad because there is no competition happening in other countries as well. We have to make the best of the situation and we will come up with something that involves domestic competition. Our Olympic athletes have plenty of time to prepare and they have enough talent and experience to overcome this period. But our younger generation could suffer because of the lack of action and it might hurt us a few years down the line. We have some of the best young shooting talents in the world here in India and their development might be hit, but we will try to make up for this period in the future. DSD: As president of the shooting federation you have a larger responsibility but is it time to take some tough calls and prioritise just the Olympic squad for the time being. That might mean that the younger shooters who are in the pipeline for the 2024 Olympics will have to suffer. Raninder Singh: I think by the time the next Olympic cycle begins for the 2024 games, we will be well on our way towards recovery. At the moment, there are at least 4,000 different clinical trials that are ongoing for a vaccine or a treatment for the coronavirus. I think we can safely say that even if a vaccine isn't developed, effective treatment to the coronavirus will be found in two years. There is a possibility that the spread of the virus will decrease substantially in the near future. I certainly believe that the world's scientific community will find a solution for the COVID-19 virus. However, all of us have to be on our toes because this virus has long-term effects on the body. DSD: Have you thought of maybe having three different venues for camps, rifle at one place, pistol at one place and shotgun at one place to minimise the risk when you begin the camps? Raninder Singh: At the moment, I don't think it will be possible to hold different camps for different disciplines because that will only increase the risk of transmission, given the current state of affairs. If the situation does improve and the curve flattens, then we can think of holding multiple national camps. Currently, the risk of holding multiple camps is too high and we as a governing body have a responsibility to protect our athletes. If and when a national camp takes place, I will personally be present at the location to oversee that all relevant health and safety protocols are followed. DSD: The fact remains you have an extremely young team. I have spoken to a few of them and they have been shooting at home. But you know there is no substitute for the competition so how do you keep them sharp. Raninder Singh: The only way we can ensure that there is high-level competition for our shooters is by holding bilateral international events. The pressure that one feels at a full-fledged competition cannot be replicated in a trial or in an online shootout. Hopefully, we will be able to invite a nation that is of a similar international standard to India and hold an event. Once the government of India gives the go-ahead, then we will further draw up the plans and start shortlisting the nations who can be invited. Unfortunately, there will no elaborate process for the selection of the Indian team for the bilateral event and we will have to stick with the team we have. I realise it is unfair on the other athletes but we do not have any other option. DSD: Abhinav Bindra and Manavjit Sandhu, two of your most decorated shooters told me that it is the wiser and more experienced shooters who will negotiate this stoppage better. A majority of your Olympic probables are between 16-24, so how do you keep them focussed? Raninder Singh: Abhinav Bindra and Manavjit Sandhu are two legends of Indian shooting and I have the utmost respect for them. However, I believe that youngsters are more adaptable than the old guard. The young ones have more hunger in them, therefore they are more willing to adapt. The more experienced shooters are there to guide their younger colleagues and hopefully, they will be able to overcome this period of strife together. The lack of competition will hurt the young shooters and that is why we are looking to organise bilateral events so that they can get back in the groove ahead of the Tokyo Olympics next year. DSD: You also are a pretty senior member of the international body ISSF. What are the plans to resume sport internationally and can it only happen when every participating country is able to send shooters without any quarantine norms to follow? Raninder Singh: If an international event takes place, then athletes will have to follow the quarantine protocols that are present in the concerned nation to participate, there is no other option. I am not authorised to speak on behalf of the ISSF, but in my opinion, since the IOC has said that all nations must get an equal opportunity, it means that no events that are connected to Olympic qualification will be held. However, that doesn't mean that other international events cannot take place. So it just a case of getting all concerned parties on board and ensuring the health and safety of all involved. DSD: is this an opportunity for shooting to move away from established tradition. We are seeing how formula one has adapted with back to back races. Europe has overcome the worst of the pandemic and can host events. Why not design a calendar that follows a similar model of chartered flights, bio bubbles or is it not possible financially? Raninder Singh: any kind of modification that is made to the format or event, has to be sanctioned by the international federation first. I am not against any change in format that will make holding events easier during or after the coronavirus period, but these decisions cannot be taken unilaterally. ISSF is actually one of the most flexible and adaptive bodies in world sport. Having said that, athletes can't be sitting at home and this matter will be discussed within the ISSF in the near future. With regard to online competitions, I have no problem with it, but we cannot take a decision unilaterally. The NRAI must be authorised to do so by the ISSF. An Olympic event itself cannot be changed drastically and that will lead to problems. Otherwise, any decision that leads to the growth of the sport will be supported by us. DSD: How do you ensure that the young athletes are not mentally scarred by this shutdown? Raninder Singh: I come back again to the same point, that bilateral arrangements are the only way forward, not just for India but for every federation in the world. DSD: There is another factor that cannot be ignored. We still don’t know if the Olympics will happen. You were the first Indian administrator to call for the postponement of the Tokyo games and what do you think will be the factors that see the Olympics going ahead next year. Raninder Singh: There has to be a qualitative treatment available that essentially makes the coronavirus far less dangerous and contagious than it is right now. A treatment that allows doctors to treat a patient effectively in a short span of time, which also doesn't adversely affect the long term health of the individual. At the moment, we do not have such treatment available to us. DSD: Is this the biggest challenge for you as a sports administrator, to get the sport back on track amid the coronavirus pandemic and turn shooting into a television sport? Raninder Singh: I think this is the biggest opportunity we have because this situation has compelled everyone in the shooting fraternity to turn to the television, therefore we have an audience available to us. The international federation now has to guide us on how to take advantage of this situation.

WION Exclusive| Raninder Singh: Hosting bilateral events only option to keep Olympic team sharp

Olympic chief Thomas Bach on Wednesday held a series of talks with International Olympic Committee members on the potential consequences of the coronavirus pandemic that has seen the Tokyo Games pushed back a year to 2021, sources said.

Bach was to address the 100 IOC members in three different sessions decided by language and local time zone.

Bach's aim is to canvas the members for their view on "how to handle the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic", a source told AFP.

The IOC president wants to hear "thoughts, ideas and experiences of all members across the globe", it added.

While Bach addressed all Olympic actors on March 24 when announcing the postponement of the Tokyo Games, it is the first time since the COVID-19 outbreak that he has specifically consulted IOC members.

Bach was backed up by Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi, IOC sports director Kit McConnell, IOC director general Christophe De Kepper and chief operating officer Lana Haddad.

The IOC's medical and scientific director, Richard Budgett, also took to the floor to discuss "the issue of a vaccine", according to a second source.

Bach warned last week that 2021 was the "last option" for holding the delayed Tokyo Games, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever.

He said he backed Japan's stance that the Games will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't under control by next year.

The German wouldn't say, however, whether a vaccine was a prerequisite for going ahead with the Olympics, but was lukewarm on the idea of holding them without fans.

In March, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed to July 23, 2021 over the coronavirus, which has killed hundreds of thousands around the world and halted international sport and travel. It was the first peacetime postponement of the Olympics.

The IOC has already set aside $800 million to help organisers and sports federations meet the extra costs of a postponed Olympics.

According to the latest budget, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach on Wednesday held a series of talks with International Olympic Committee members on the potential consequences of the coronavirus pandemic that has seen the Tokyo Games pushed back a year to 2021, sources said.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach on Wednesday held a series of talks with International Olympic Committee members on the potential consequences of the coronavirus pandemic that has seen the Tokyo Games pushed back a year to 2021, sources said. Bach was to address the 100 IOC members in three different sessions decided by language and local time zone. Bach's aim is to canvas the members for their view on "how to handle the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic", a source told AFP. The IOC president wants to hear "thoughts, ideas and experiences of all members across the globe", it added. While Bach addressed all Olympic actors on March 24 when announcing the postponement of the Tokyo Games, it is the first time since the COVID-19 outbreak that he has specifically consulted IOC members. Bach was backed up by Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi, IOC sports director Kit McConnell, IOC director general Christophe De Kepper and chief operating officer Lana Haddad. The IOC's medical and scientific director, Richard Budgett, also took to the floor to discuss "the issue of a vaccine", according to a second source. Bach warned last week that 2021 was the "last option" for holding the delayed Tokyo Games, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever. He said he backed Japan's stance that the Games will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't under control by next year. The German wouldn't say, however, whether a vaccine was a prerequisite for going ahead with the Olympics, but was lukewarm on the idea of holding them without fans. In March, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed to July 23, 2021 over the coronavirus, which has killed hundreds of thousands around the world and halted international sport and travel. It was the first peacetime postponement of the Olympics. The IOC has already set aside $800 million to help organisers and sports federations meet the extra costs of a postponed Olympics. According to the latest budget, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city.

Olympic chief Bach consults with IOC members over virus fallout

Brazil's shot put champion Darlan Romani is not letting lockdown get in the way of preparations for the Tokyo Olympics, using an unused plot of land in a residential area of Sao Paulo state to keep up his winning form.

Nothing weighs down Brazil shot putter as he improvises Olympic training in lockdown

Olympic swimming champion Joseph Schooling is seeking to further delay his national service in Singapore so he can compete in the postponed Tokyo Games, officials said Wednesday.&nbsp;

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The city-state requires all male citizens aged 18 to serve two years in the military, the police or the emergency services, an obligation authorities rarely let people skip.

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But Schooling was allowed to defer national service in 2014 to train for the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he famously beat his idol Michael Phelps to win the 100-metre butterfly gold.

He got another deferment to train for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but the Games were moved to next year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Singapore's defence ministry said Schooling and another Tokyo-bound Singapore swimmer, Quah Zheng Wen, have applied to further postpone their national service to compete in the Olympics.

The ministry said it would examine "details of their training plans and milestones" before making a decision.

Schooling faces a tough fight to repeat his 2016 success -- he was criticised for being out of shape at last year's Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines, where he won only one individual gold medal.

In 2018, the defence ministry refused an application by Singaporean football player Ben Davis to defer national service so he could play in the English Premier League, saying he did not meet the criteria.

Davis signed a deal with Premier League side Fulham anyway, and could now face jail for missing his national service if he returns to Singapore.

Olympic swimming champion Joseph Schooling is seeking to further delay his national service in Singapore so he can compete in the postponed Tokyo Games, officials said Wednesday.

Olympic swimming champion Joseph Schooling is seeking to further delay his national service in Singapore so he can compete in the postponed Tokyo Games, officials said Wednesday. Also read: 'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat The city-state requires all male citizens aged 18 to serve two years in the military, the police or the emergency services, an obligation authorities rarely let people skip. Also read: Ramsey first back at Juve training, Ronaldo in quarantine But Schooling was allowed to defer national service in 2014 to train for the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he famously beat his idol Michael Phelps to win the 100-metre butterfly gold. He got another deferment to train for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but the Games were moved to next year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Singapore's defence ministry said Schooling and another Tokyo-bound Singapore swimmer, Quah Zheng Wen, have applied to further postpone their national service to compete in the Olympics. The ministry said it would examine "details of their training plans and milestones" before making a decision. Schooling faces a tough fight to repeat his 2016 success -- he was criticised for being out of shape at last year's Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines, where he won only one individual gold medal. In 2018, the defence ministry refused an application by Singaporean football player Ben Davis to defer national service so he could play in the English Premier League, saying he did not meet the criteria. Davis signed a deal with Premier League side Fulham anyway, and could now face jail for missing his national service if he returns to Singapore.

Swimmer Schooling seeks national service delay after Olympics moved

The United States track and field trials for the Tokyo Olympics will take place on June 18-27 next year following the postponement of the Games due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The elite athletics competition to determine places in Tokyo was initially set for this June at Hayward Field in Oregon.

However the one-year postponement of the Olympics forced USA Track and Field to follow suit and delay its trials as expected.

A USATF statement said the competition schedule would remain "much the same."

"While there is a possibility that some of the timings of the competition windows may shift, the events taking place on each day will not change," the USATF said.

The trials will take place at a fully redeveloped Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon.

The new venue had been due to stage next year's World Athletics Championships, but that track and field showpiece was also delayed by a year, until 2022, to make way for the rescheduled Olympics.

The United States track and field trials for the Tokyo Olympics will take place on June 18-27 next year following the postponement of the Games due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The United States track and field trials for the Tokyo Olympics will take place on June 18-27 next year following the postponement of the Games due to the coronavirus pandemic. The elite athletics competition to determine places in Tokyo was initially set for this June at Hayward Field in Oregon. However the one-year postponement of the Olympics forced USA Track and Field to follow suit and delay its trials as expected. A USATF statement said the competition schedule would remain "much the same." "While there is a possibility that some of the timings of the competition windows may shift, the events taking place on each day will not change," the USATF said. The trials will take place at a fully redeveloped Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon. The new venue had been due to stage next year's World Athletics Championships, but that track and field showpiece was also delayed by a year, until 2022, to make way for the rescheduled Olympics.

US Olympic trials set for June 2021 in Eugene

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again." for the world’s third-largest economy – Japan.&nbsp;

With the deadly COVID-19 taking almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, the IOC and Japan, in the month of March, took the historic decision to postpone the Olympics by one year with the opening ceremony now scheduled to be held on July 23, 2021.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge body blow to the global economy with economists predicting a second Great Depression with around $9 trillion wiped out.

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"I think there will be a lot of countries and cities around the world wishing for a similar opportunity," IOC official John Coates said.

Some economists have predicted that postponing the quadrennial Games by a year would reduce Japan’s GP by around $6 billion and that could be only recouped if the Olympics take place.&nbsp;

Coates claimed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe "may well have had in mind that your country may be in a recession then and this would be an opportunity for a great economic stimulus".

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Organisers had earlier said that the postponement of the Games would come major ramifications and there will be “massive” additional cost from the $12.6 billion the Games were supposed to cost-shared between the Japanese government, Tokyo 2020 and the host city.

Coates said that they would use the time in hand to look at a different way of reducing the additional costs.

Postponing the Olympics is an unprecedented task that starts with managing the venues, hotel bookings, volunteers, etc. Given the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic improves in coming months, then the Tokyo Olympics would not only come as a welcome event in the world of sports but would also help in reviving the Japanese economy, which has not only taken a hit due to the pandemic but also for the postponement of the Games. 
&nbsp;

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again.

The postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics will provide an economic boost to the coronavirus-hit Japan in the year 2021, a senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) official claimed on Thursday as he said that conducting the Games in 2021 could be a "very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus" that could "kickstart the economy again." for the world’s third-largest economy – Japan. With the deadly COVID-19 taking almost the entire world under its dreaded wings, the IOC and Japan, in the month of March, took the historic decision to postpone the Olympics by one year with the opening ceremony now scheduled to be held on July 23, 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge body blow to the global economy with economists predicting a second Great Depression with around $9 trillion wiped out. ALSO READ: Official: IPL 2020 suspended till further notice amid COVID-19 pandemic "I think there will be a lot of countries and cities around the world wishing for a similar opportunity," IOC official John Coates said. Some economists have predicted that postponing the quadrennial Games by a year would reduce Japan’s GP by around $6 billion and that could be only recouped if the Olympics take place. Coates claimed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe "may well have had in mind that your country may be in a recession then and this would be an opportunity for a great economic stimulus". ALSO READ: 'It took many moments sitting, thinking and crying': Coco Gauff reveals struggle with depression and extreme pressure Organisers had earlier said that the postponement of the Games would come major ramifications and there will be “massive” additional cost from the $12.6 billion the Games were supposed to cost-shared between the Japanese government, Tokyo 2020 and the host city. Coates said that they would use the time in hand to look at a different way of reducing the additional costs. Postponing the Olympics is an unprecedented task that starts with managing the venues, hotel bookings, volunteers, etc. Given the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic improves in coming months, then the Tokyo Olympics would not only come as a welcome event in the world of sports but would also help in reviving the Japanese economy, which has not only taken a hit due to the pandemic but also for the postponement of the Games.

Postponed Tokyo Olympics 'to kickstart' Japan economy: IOC

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis.

"Whilst we all know that different parts of the world are at different stages of the virus, the unanimous view across all our areas is that an Olympic Games in July this year is neither feasible nor desirable," Coe said in his letter.

Canada has already pulled out of the Games and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe admitted a delay may be "inevitable".

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis.

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe has called for the Tokyo Olympics to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach, written before Sunday's IOC meeting, Coe said holding the Games in July 2020 was "neither feasible nor desirable" because of the global crisis. "Whilst we all know that different parts of the world are at different stages of the virus, the unanimous view across all our areas is that an Olympic Games in July this year is neither feasible nor desirable," Coe said in his letter. Canada has already pulled out of the Games and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe admitted a delay may be "inevitable".

World Athletics chief Coe calls for Olympics postponement

The Olympic flame arrived in Japan to a scaled-down welcoming ceremony Friday as doubts grew over whether the Tokyo Games will go ahead on schedule with the coronavirus pandemic causing chaos around the world.

As the flame, enclosed in a special lantern, landed on a charter flight, a Japanese Olympic Committee member broke ranks to call for a postponement and Olympics chief Thomas Bach admitted "different scenarios" were under consideration.

"Of course we are considering different scenarios, but we are contrary to many other sports organisations or professional leagues in that we are four-and-a-half months away from the Games," Bach, the International Olympic Committee president, told the New York Times.

"For us, (postponement) would not be responsible now and it would be premature to start speculation or make a decision at a time when we do not have any recommendation from the task force," he added.

Reflecting the uncertainty caused by COVID-19, the flame's arrival at Matsushima Air Base in Japan's north was a muted affair after organisers were forced to cancel plans to invite 200 schoolchildren.

Former Olympic judo champions Saori Yoshida and Tadahiro Nomura lit a ceremonial cauldron in front of a few dozen officials and guests.

"Children had planned to welcome the Olympic flame, but we decided to scale it down, giving priority to their safety," said Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori.

The nationwide torch relay begins on March 26, starting from the J-Village sports complex in Fukushima that was used as a base for workers during the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster.

But organisers have been forced to scale back the relay, closing daily ceremonies to the public and urging spectators to "avoid forming crowds" along the route.

<h2>- Olympics 'should be postponed' -</h2>

Speculation has been growing over the Games, scheduled to start on July 24, after the COVID-19 outbreak closed sports competitions around the world and paralysed many countries, along with international travel.

The virus has already disrupted the early stages of the torch's journey in Greece, with the lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia taking place without spectators.

Organisers then had to scrap the Greek leg of the relay after large crowds mobbed Hollywood actor Gerard Butler as he lit a cauldron in the city of Sparta.

With borders shut in Europe -- which has become the epicentre of the crisis -- Tokyo officials did not travel to collect the torch, with former Olympic swimmer Naoko Imoto representing Japan at the official handover.

As the flame landed, there are increasing clouds over the Games, with some athletes attacking the IOC for insisting there's no need for "drastic" action such as postponement or cancellation.

Japanese Olympic Committee executive board member Kaori Yamaguchi, a former Olympic judoka, was the latest prominent figure to call for a postponement, citing the difficulties faced by athletes.

"It should be postponed under the current situation where athletes are not well prepared," Yamaguchi told the Nikkei daily.

"By asking them to train under these conditions, the IOC is opening itself up the criticism that it is not putting athletes first," she added.

Bach, under fire after the IOC advised athletes to continue training "as best they can", insisted health considerations were "first and foremost" -- and that the decision won't be driven by financial interest.

"What makes this crisis so unique and so difficult to overcome is the uncertainty. Nobody today can tell you what the developments are tomorrow, what they are in one month, not to mention in more than four months," he said.

"Therefore it would not be responsible in any way to set a date or take a decision right now, which would be based on the speculation about the future developments."

Bach said the IOC will act on advice from its own task force and the World Health Organization, but was optimistic about holding the Games on time. He added that there was no question of a cancellation.

The Olympic flame arrived in Japan to a scaled-down welcoming ceremony Friday as doubts grew over whether the Tokyo Games will go ahead on schedule with the coronavirus pandemic causing chaos around the world.

The Olympic flame arrived in Japan to a scaled-down welcoming ceremony Friday as doubts grew over whether the Tokyo Games will go ahead on schedule with the coronavirus pandemic causing chaos around the world. As the flame, enclosed in a special lantern, landed on a charter flight, a Japanese Olympic Committee member broke ranks to call for a postponement and Olympics chief Thomas Bach admitted "different scenarios" were under consideration. "Of course we are considering different scenarios, but we are contrary to many other sports organisations or professional leagues in that we are four-and-a-half months away from the Games," Bach, the International Olympic Committee president, told the New York Times. "For us, (postponement) would not be responsible now and it would be premature to start speculation or make a decision at a time when we do not have any recommendation from the task force," he added. Reflecting the uncertainty caused by COVID-19, the flame's arrival at Matsushima Air Base in Japan's north was a muted affair after organisers were forced to cancel plans to invite 200 schoolchildren. Former Olympic judo champions Saori Yoshida and Tadahiro Nomura lit a ceremonial cauldron in front of a few dozen officials and guests. "Children had planned to welcome the Olympic flame, but we decided to scale it down, giving priority to their safety," said Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori. The nationwide torch relay begins on March 26, starting from the J-Village sports complex in Fukushima that was used as a base for workers during the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. But organisers have been forced to scale back the relay, closing daily ceremonies to the public and urging spectators to "avoid forming crowds" along the route. - Olympics 'should be postponed' - Speculation has been growing over the Games, scheduled to start on July 24, after the COVID-19 outbreak closed sports competitions around the world and paralysed many countries, along with international travel. The virus has already disrupted the early stages of the torch's journey in Greece, with the lighting ceremony in ancient Olympia taking place without spectators. Organisers then had to scrap the Greek leg of the relay after large crowds mobbed Hollywood actor Gerard Butler as he lit a cauldron in the city of Sparta. With borders shut in Europe -- which has become the epicentre of the crisis -- Tokyo officials did not travel to collect the torch, with former Olympic swimmer Naoko Imoto representing Japan at the official handover. As the flame landed, there are increasing clouds over the Games, with some athletes attacking the IOC for insisting there's no need for "drastic" action such as postponement or cancellation. Japanese Olympic Committee executive board member Kaori Yamaguchi, a former Olympic judoka, was the latest prominent figure to call for a postponement, citing the difficulties faced by athletes. "It should be postponed under the current situation where athletes are not well prepared," Yamaguchi told the Nikkei daily. "By asking them to train under these conditions, the IOC is opening itself up the criticism that it is not putting athletes first," she added. Bach, under fire after the IOC advised athletes to continue training "as best they can", insisted health considerations were "first and foremost" -- and that the decision won't be driven by financial interest. "What makes this crisis so unique and so difficult to overcome is the uncertainty. Nobody today can tell you what the developments are tomorrow, what they are in one month, not to mention in more than four months," he said. "Therefore it would not be responsible in any way to set a date or take a decision right now, which would be based on the speculation about the future developments." Bach said the IOC will act on advice from its own task force and the World Health Organization, but was optimistic about holding the Games on time. He added that there was no question of a cancellation.

Olympic flame gets muted welcome in Japan as Games doubts grow

The Tokyo Olympics should be postponed, according to a senior member of the Japan Olympic Committee, adding her voice to a growing chorus calling for Tokyo 2020 to be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-news-tokyo-olympics-2020-flame-festivities-scaled-back-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-286951">Tokyo Olympics 2020 flame festivities scaled back amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

"It should be postponed under the current situation where athletes can't be well prepared," Kaori Yamaguchi, a JOC executive board member, told the Nikkei daily in an interview published on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cancelling-tokyo-olympics-inconceivable-japan-minister-285590">Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister</a>

Yamaguchi, who won a bronze medal for judo at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, is the first JOC board member to call openly for a postponement of the Tokyo Games.

The coronavirus pandemic has killed nearly 10,000 globally and played havoc with the international sporting calendar, raising doubts about whether the Games can open as scheduled on July 24.

Organisers have scrapped qualifiers and scaled back test events, while many countries have imposed travel bans.

The International Olympic Committee, which will take the final decision on whether to proceed as scheduled, has voiced its commitment to the Games going ahead.

Yamaguchi criticised the IOC stance, saying the body "is putting athletes at risk."

"By asking them to train under these conditions, the IOC is opening itself up the criticism that it is not putting athletes first," Yamaguchi told the newspaper.

"Unlike other sporting events, the Olympics symbolise the ideal that sports bring about world peace," she said.&nbsp;

The Olympics should not be held "if people across the world can't enjoy themselves," she said.

"What I'm most scared of is that we force an opening and have people question the Olympics, asking, 'Why only the Olympics'?" she said.

She also urged the IOC to at least set a deadline for its final decision.

Yamaguchi said she plans to argue her position when the JOC meets Friday next week, the business daily added.

Her comments came as the Olympic flame was landing in Japan to a muted reception as organisers have scaled back events surrounding the torch relay due to the virus.

The Tokyo Olympics should be postponed, according to a senior member of the Japan Olympic Committee, adding her voice to a growing chorus calling for Tokyo 2020 to be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Tokyo Olympics should be postponed, according to a senior member of the Japan Olympic Committee, adding her voice to a growing chorus calling for Tokyo 2020 to be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Tokyo Olympics 2020 flame festivities scaled back amid coronavirus pandemic "It should be postponed under the current situation where athletes can't be well prepared," Kaori Yamaguchi, a JOC executive board member, told the Nikkei daily in an interview published on Friday. Also read: Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister Yamaguchi, who won a bronze medal for judo at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, is the first JOC board member to call openly for a postponement of the Tokyo Games. The coronavirus pandemic has killed nearly 10,000 globally and played havoc with the international sporting calendar, raising doubts about whether the Games can open as scheduled on July 24. Organisers have scrapped qualifiers and scaled back test events, while many countries have imposed travel bans. The International Olympic Committee, which will take the final decision on whether to proceed as scheduled, has voiced its commitment to the Games going ahead. Yamaguchi criticised the IOC stance, saying the body "is putting athletes at risk." "By asking them to train under these conditions, the IOC is opening itself up the criticism that it is not putting athletes first," Yamaguchi told the newspaper. "Unlike other sporting events, the Olympics symbolise the ideal that sports bring about world peace," she said. The Olympics should not be held "if people across the world can't enjoy themselves," she said. "What I'm most scared of is that we force an opening and have people question the Olympics, asking, 'Why only the Olympics'?" she said. She also urged the IOC to at least set a deadline for its final decision. Yamaguchi said she plans to argue her position when the JOC meets Friday next week, the business daily added. Her comments came as the Olympic flame was landing in Japan to a muted reception as organisers have scaled back events surrounding the torch relay due to the virus.

Japan Olympic Committee official urges Tokyo 2020 delay

Olympic pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi said athletes were being forced to take health risks as competitors started to speak out about holding the Tokyo Games during the coronavirus crisis.

Stefanidi and British heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson both voiced concerns after the International Olympic Committee said it was "fully committed" to running the Games as scheduled from July 24.

An IOC member called the body's stance "insensitive and irresponsible", saying athletes were facing "anxiety and heartbreak" as they try to train during the virus emergency.

Stefanidi, one of Greece's most prominent athletes, was scheduled to hand the ceremonial flame to Japanese officials before the Greek leg of the torch relay was scrapped over COVID-19.&nbsp;

"The IOC wants us to keep risking our health, our family's health and public health to train every day?" she tweeted.

"You are putting us in danger right now, today, not in 4 months."

On Tuesday, minutes before the IOC statement, the Euro 2020 football tournament was delayed for a year, bowing to the crisis that has paralysed Europe and drastically curtailed international travel.

Olympic qualifying tournaments are among the swathe of sports events that have been cancelled or postponed, with only 57 percent of athletes booking their places so far.

"It's unbelievable," said Stefanidi. "What about team sports that have to train together? What about swimming? What about gymnastics that they touch the same objects?&nbsp;

"There is zero consideration of the risk they are putting us in right now."

Johnson-Thompson, the world heptathlon champion, criticised the IOC for telling athletes to train "as best they can", saying it was at odds with stringent government health measures.

"I feel under pressure to train and keep the same routine which is impossible," she wrote on Twitter.

"It's difficult (to) approach the season when everything has changed in the lead-up apart from the ultimate deadline," added the Briton.

<h2>- 'Bigger than the Olympics' -</h2>

Doubts are increasingly being expressed about holding the Olympics on time, after the outbreak that first exploded in China spread to Asia and then worldwide, infecting almost 200,000 people and killing 7,900.

On Wednesday an Olympic gymnastics qualifier in Tokyo, doubling as a test event, became the latest competition to be cancelled.

A day earlier, the deputy head of Japan's Olympic committee said he had tested positive for coronavirus.

But the IOC insisted "there is no need for any drastic decisions at this stage" adding that "any speculation at this moment would be counter-productive".

Hayley Wickenheiser, a Canadian IOC member with four ice hockey gold medals, warned "this crisis is bigger than even the Olympics".

"From an athlete perspective, I can only imagine and try to empathise with the anxiety and heartbreak athletes are feeling right now," she said in a statement.

"The uncertainty of not knowing where you're going to train tomorrow as facilities close and qualification events are cancelled all over the world would be terrible if you've been training your whole life for this."

Wickenheiser added: "I think the IOC insisting this will move ahead, with such conviction, is insensitive and irresponsible given the state of humanity."

Middle-distance runner Jess Judd also criticised the IOC advice on training, while fellow British track athlete Guy Learmonth has told The Guardian that the Olympics should be postponed.

Olympic pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi said athletes were being forced to take health risks as competitors started to speak out about holding the Tokyo Games during the coronavirus crisis.

Olympic pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi said athletes were being forced to take health risks as competitors started to speak out about holding the Tokyo Games during the coronavirus crisis. Stefanidi and British heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson both voiced concerns after the International Olympic Committee said it was "fully committed" to running the Games as scheduled from July 24. An IOC member called the body's stance "insensitive and irresponsible", saying athletes were facing "anxiety and heartbreak" as they try to train during the virus emergency. Stefanidi, one of Greece's most prominent athletes, was scheduled to hand the ceremonial flame to Japanese officials before the Greek leg of the torch relay was scrapped over COVID-19. "The IOC wants us to keep risking our health, our family's health and public health to train every day?" she tweeted. "You are putting us in danger right now, today, not in 4 months." On Tuesday, minutes before the IOC statement, the Euro 2020 football tournament was delayed for a year, bowing to the crisis that has paralysed Europe and drastically curtailed international travel. Olympic qualifying tournaments are among the swathe of sports events that have been cancelled or postponed, with only 57 percent of athletes booking their places so far. "It's unbelievable," said Stefanidi. "What about team sports that have to train together? What about swimming? What about gymnastics that they touch the same objects? "There is zero consideration of the risk they are putting us in right now." Johnson-Thompson, the world heptathlon champion, criticised the IOC for telling athletes to train "as best they can", saying it was at odds with stringent government health measures. "I feel under pressure to train and keep the same routine which is impossible," she wrote on Twitter. "It's difficult (to) approach the season when everything has changed in the lead-up apart from the ultimate deadline," added the Briton. - 'Bigger than the Olympics' - Doubts are increasingly being expressed about holding the Olympics on time, after the outbreak that first exploded in China spread to Asia and then worldwide, infecting almost 200,000 people and killing 7,900. On Wednesday an Olympic gymnastics qualifier in Tokyo, doubling as a test event, became the latest competition to be cancelled. A day earlier, the deputy head of Japan's Olympic committee said he had tested positive for coronavirus. But the IOC insisted "there is no need for any drastic decisions at this stage" adding that "any speculation at this moment would be counter-productive". Hayley Wickenheiser, a Canadian IOC member with four ice hockey gold medals, warned "this crisis is bigger than even the Olympics". "From an athlete perspective, I can only imagine and try to empathise with the anxiety and heartbreak athletes are feeling right now," she said in a statement. "The uncertainty of not knowing where you're going to train tomorrow as facilities close and qualification events are cancelled all over the world would be terrible if you've been training your whole life for this." Wickenheiser added: "I think the IOC insisting this will move ahead, with such conviction, is insensitive and irresponsible given the state of humanity." Middle-distance runner Jess Judd also criticised the IOC advice on training, while fellow British track athlete Guy Learmonth has told The Guardian that the Olympics should be postponed.

'Putting us in danger' - athlete concerns grow ahead of 2020 Tokyo Olympics

The organisers of 2020 Tokyo Olympics have said that they are scaling back parts of the much-awaited Olympic torch relay amid the coronavirus pandemic. However, the organisers made it clear that the spectators will be allowed to watch the torch relay from the roadside. While welcome ceremonies have been scraped, departure ceremonies will be completely conducted behind close doors, the organisers said in a statement.&nbsp;

The organisers of 2020 Tokyo Olympics have further asked the spectators to not attend torch relay from the roadside if they are feeling unwell. Furthermore, the torch-bearers will have their temperature tested and those with higher temperature will not be allowed to run their section of the relay.

The latest development by the 2020 Tokyo Olympics organisers come amid doubts whether the highly-anticipated Games can be held as scheduled from July 24 with the novel coronavirus destroying the sporting calendar including the Olympic qualification.

However, there has been no plans to postpone or suspend the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with talks between International Olympic Committee (IOC) and heads of international sports organisations set to take place on March 17.

Even though IOC's take has drawn harsh criticism for their take on conducting 2020 Tokyo Olympics in time, experts believe that the authority wants to give athletes every chance to compete in the Games.

Earlier, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics torch lighting ceremony was held without spectators and now, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics flame handover ceremony on March 19 will be scaled down event with only few officials and torch bearers inside the stadium.

The organisers of 2020 Tokyo Olympics have said that they are scaling back parts of the much-awaited Olympic torch relay amid the coronavirus pandemic. However, the organisers made it clear that the spectators will be allowed to watch the torch relay from the roadside.

The organisers of 2020 Tokyo Olympics have said that they are scaling back parts of the much-awaited Olympic torch relay amid the coronavirus pandemic. However, the organisers made it clear that the spectators will be allowed to watch the torch relay from the roadside. While welcome ceremonies have been scraped, departure ceremonies will be completely conducted behind close doors, the organisers said in a statement. The organisers of 2020 Tokyo Olympics have further asked the spectators to not attend torch relay from the roadside if they are feeling unwell. Furthermore, the torch-bearers will have their temperature tested and those with higher temperature will not be allowed to run their section of the relay. The latest development by the 2020 Tokyo Olympics organisers come amid doubts whether the highly-anticipated Games can be held as scheduled from July 24 with the novel coronavirus destroying the sporting calendar including the Olympic qualification. However, there has been no plans to postpone or suspend the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with talks between International Olympic Committee (IOC) and heads of international sports organisations set to take place on March 17. Even though IOC's take has drawn harsh criticism for their take on conducting 2020 Tokyo Olympics in time, experts believe that the authority wants to give athletes every chance to compete in the Games. Earlier, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics torch lighting ceremony was held without spectators and now, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics flame handover ceremony on March 19 will be scaled down event with only few officials and torch bearers inside the stadium.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 flame festivities scaled back amid coronavirus pandemic

The&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;flame for the 2020 Tokyo Games was lit in ancient Olympia on Thursday amid an unprecedented health lockdown as Greece registered its first death from coronavirus.

With spectators banned, an actress dressed as an ancient Greek high priestess lit the flame using the rays of the sun reflected off a concave mirror, launching a week-long torch relay in Greece before the flame is handed to Tokyo organisers on March 19.

"Today marks the beginning of the journey of the&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;flame to Japan," said International&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach.

"When the flame returns to Tokyo after 56 years, hope will light the way across the entire country," he said.

Japan last hosted the summer Olympics -- also in Tokyo -- in 1964.

Now it seeks to use the 2020 Olympics to show the world it has regained its creative flair and innovative energy, but also as a means to highlight reconstruction following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Fukushima.

"Japan will demonstrate its groundbreaking innovation and boundless creative energy with regards to sustainability, technology and human-centred growth," Bach said.

"The&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Games... will again be a symbol of hope and confidence for all Japanese people."

But with the coronavirus causing devastation in world sport, doubts are increasingly being raised over whether the Olympics can be held as scheduled from July 24 to August 9.

Organisers have insisted the Games will go ahead as planned and the IOC has said there has not yet been any talk of cancellation or postponement.

The IOC has said it will coordinate closely with the World Health Organization, which has now officially classified the outbreak as a pandemic.

The torch relay in Greece is scheduled to pass through 37 cities and 15 archaeological sites covering 3,500 kilometres (2,175 miles) and 842 nautical miles (1,559 km) and will be carried by 600 runners.

Once in Japan, the relay will start from Fukushima and travel along routes eventually leading to the capital.&nbsp;

<h2>- Closed to the public -</h2>

The hydrogen that powers the&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;flame will be produced in the town of Namia in Fukushima, one of the worst affected areas, said Toshiaki Endo, acting president of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee.

And the torch has been partially produced from recycled aluminium originally used to build temporary housing units in the aftermath of the quake, he said.

Greek&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;shooting champion Anna Korakaki was the initial torch bearer, the first time a woman has been chosen for the role.

She was followed by Mizuki Noguchi, gold medallist in the women's marathon at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Hollywood actor Gerard Butler will be among the runners once the torch relay reaches Sparta. Butler starred as the ancient Spartan King Leonidas in the 2007 epic '300'.

The ceremony was held without spectators after dozens of people tested positive for COVID-19 in the broader western Peloponnese. Up to 12,000 had been expected to make their way to Olympia, where the ancient Games were held.

Only 100 accredited guests from the International&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee, compared to 700 originally, were allowed to attend Thursday's ceremony.

The dress rehearsal on Wednesday was also closed to the public and dinners and galas arranged for the torch lighting have been scrapped.

The only precedent is in 1984 when the Greek leg of the torch relay was abandoned in a protest by Greek organisers against what they saw as the commercialisation of the Los Angeles Olympics.

The Olympic flame for the 2020 Tokyo Games was lit in ancient Olympia on Thursday amid an unprecedented health lockdown as Greece registered its first death from coronavirus.

The Olympic flame for the 2020 Tokyo Games was lit in ancient Olympia on Thursday amid an unprecedented health lockdown as Greece registered its first death from coronavirus. With spectators banned, an actress dressed as an ancient Greek high priestess lit the flame using the rays of the sun reflected off a concave mirror, launching a week-long torch relay in Greece before the flame is handed to Tokyo organisers on March 19. "Today marks the beginning of the journey of the Olympic flame to Japan," said International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach. "When the flame returns to Tokyo after 56 years, hope will light the way across the entire country," he said. Japan last hosted the summer Olympics -- also in Tokyo -- in 1964. Now it seeks to use the 2020 Olympics to show the world it has regained its creative flair and innovative energy, but also as a means to highlight reconstruction following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Fukushima. "Japan will demonstrate its groundbreaking innovation and boundless creative energy with regards to sustainability, technology and human-centred growth," Bach said. "The Olympic Games... will again be a symbol of hope and confidence for all Japanese people." But with the coronavirus causing devastation in world sport, doubts are increasingly being raised over whether the Olympics can be held as scheduled from July 24 to August 9. Organisers have insisted the Games will go ahead as planned and the IOC has said there has not yet been any talk of cancellation or postponement. The IOC has said it will coordinate closely with the World Health Organization, which has now officially classified the outbreak as a pandemic. The torch relay in Greece is scheduled to pass through 37 cities and 15 archaeological sites covering 3,500 kilometres (2,175 miles) and 842 nautical miles (1,559 km) and will be carried by 600 runners. Once in Japan, the relay will start from Fukushima and travel along routes eventually leading to the capital. - Closed to the public - The hydrogen that powers the Olympic flame will be produced in the town of Namia in Fukushima, one of the worst affected areas, said Toshiaki Endo, acting president of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee. And the torch has been partially produced from recycled aluminium originally used to build temporary housing units in the aftermath of the quake, he said. Greek Olympic shooting champion Anna Korakaki was the initial torch bearer, the first time a woman has been chosen for the role. She was followed by Mizuki Noguchi, gold medallist in the women's marathon at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Hollywood actor Gerard Butler will be among the runners once the torch relay reaches Sparta. Butler starred as the ancient Spartan King Leonidas in the 2007 epic '300'. The ceremony was held without spectators after dozens of people tested positive for COVID-19 in the broader western Peloponnese. Up to 12,000 had been expected to make their way to Olympia, where the ancient Games were held. Only 100 accredited guests from the International Olympic Committee and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee, compared to 700 originally, were allowed to attend Thursday's ceremony. The dress rehearsal on Wednesday was also closed to the public and dinners and galas arranged for the torch lighting have been scrapped. The only precedent is in 1984 when the Greek leg of the torch relay was abandoned in a protest by Greek organisers against what they saw as the commercialisation of the Los Angeles Olympics.

Flame for 2020 Tokyo Olympics lit in Greece amid virus lockdown

Whirling, spinning, reaching and flexing - Japanese wheelchair dancer Kenta Kambara's emotive performances are wordless testimony to artistic passion and possibility.

Paralympic wheelchair dancer aims to perform at Tokyo Olympic games

The International Olympic Committee (IOC)&nbsp;said Tuesday it was busy with preparations for a "successful" Summer Games in Tokyo in less than five months and at a time when the coronavirus outbreak is widening.

IOC president Thomas Bach, speaking at the opening of the Olympic body's two-day executive board meeting in Lausanne, said: "We are preparing for a successful Olympic Games, Tokyo 2020."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-face-big-communications-job-as-virus-jitters-hit-tokyo-olympics-280676">IOC face 'big communications job' as virus jitters hit Tokyo Olympics</a>

Many sporting events around the world have either been cancelled or postponed in the wake of the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

More than 3,100 people have died and over 90,000 have been infected in more than 60 countries worldwide.

The vast majority of cases are in China, but South Korea, Italy and Iran have emerged as the countries with the most cases outside the epicentre.

The virus has infected at least 230 people across Japan and been linked to five deaths.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympic-ceo-calls-coronavirus-concern-irresponsible-rumours-280473">Tokyo Olympics CEO calls coronavirus concern 'irresponsible rumours'</a>

"We will have to prepare many of the final decisions that we will have to take in June," Bach said in reference to a first pre-Games executive board meeting between June 15-17, also in Lausanne.

"We will have to make some proposals for the session in Tokyo."

The IOC board is also set to meet on July 18-19 in Tokyo, with the Olympics running from July 24-August 9.

The IOC will on Tuesday discuss the coronavirus crisis, and on Wednesday hold a video call between the Tokyo 2020 organising committee and John Coates, the Australian chairman of the IOC's coordination commission for the first summer Olympics in Japan since 1964.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said Tuesday it was busy with preparations for a "successful" Summer Games in Tokyo in less than five months and at a time when the coronavirus outbreak is widening.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said Tuesday it was busy with preparations for a "successful" Summer Games in Tokyo in less than five months and at a time when the coronavirus outbreak is widening. IOC president Thomas Bach, speaking at the opening of the Olympic body's two-day executive board meeting in Lausanne, said: "We are preparing for a successful Olympic Games, Tokyo 2020." Also Read: IOC face 'big communications job' as virus jitters hit Tokyo Olympics Many sporting events around the world have either been cancelled or postponed in the wake of the spread of the COVID-19 virus. More than 3,100 people have died and over 90,000 have been infected in more than 60 countries worldwide. The vast majority of cases are in China, but South Korea, Italy and Iran have emerged as the countries with the most cases outside the epicentre. The virus has infected at least 230 people across Japan and been linked to five deaths. Also Read: Tokyo Olympics CEO calls coronavirus concern 'irresponsible rumours' "We will have to prepare many of the final decisions that we will have to take in June," Bach said in reference to a first pre-Games executive board meeting between June 15-17, also in Lausanne. "We will have to make some proposals for the session in Tokyo." The IOC board is also set to meet on July 18-19 in Tokyo, with the Olympics running from July 24-August 9. The IOC will on Tuesday discuss the coronavirus crisis, and on Wednesday hold a video call between the Tokyo 2020 organising committee and John Coates, the Australian chairman of the IOC's coordination commission for the first summer Olympics in Japan since 1964.

Preparing for 'successful' Tokyo Olympics 2020, says IOC chief

By: Mallika Singh

Russia on Friday formally contested the four-year doping ban imposed on the country’s participation in all major sporting events including Tokyo 2020 after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-wada-report-shows-jump-in-global-doping-cases-269293">World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)</a> ruled to punish the country for manipulating laboratory data on December 9.&nbsp;

The Russian Anti-Doping Agency in a letter to WADA sent a notice of disagreement for the sanctions, RUSADA director general Yury Ganus told reporters in Moscow.&nbsp;

"In accordance with established procedure, today we have sent a package of documents to WADA," said Ganus.&nbsp;

"The package contains a notice about disagreement with WADA sanctions."

Russia on December 19 had announced its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-to-appeal-against-wadas-four-year-doping-ban-269167">decision to appeal</a> against the imposed ban that bars Russian athletes from competing under the Russian flag.

"RUSADA will appeal against the WADA decision within 10 to 15 days," RUSADA supervisory board chairman Alexander Ivlev had declared.&nbsp;

Ganus also sent the anti-doping agency a letter citing his personal stance on the matter.&nbsp;

"I regret to inform you that all my attempts including attempts to introduce changes to the RUSADA notice have failed," said the letter.

Russia’s leadership including President Vladimir Putin as being “politically motivated” and contradictory to the Olympic Charter.&nbsp;

"If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag," Putin said during an annual end-of-year news conference, insisting that most of Russia's athletes were clean.

"If a majority of our athletes are clean how is it possible to slap sanctions against them for someone else's actions?" Putin added.&nbsp;

WADA’s executive committee unanimously issued a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-imposes-four-year-ban-on-russia-over-doping-data-manipulation-267195">ban against Russia</a> after its Compliance Review Committee (CRC) called for the proposed sanctions in a 26-page report declaring RUSADA to be non-compliant after the data handed over by the tainted Moscow laboratory was found to be "neither complete nor fully authentic".

Russia is currently facing a four-year ban on participation in international sporting events. Russian athletes and their personnel support are only to be allowed to participate if they can prove that they are not associated with the Russian doping scandal, even then they will not be allowed to represent the Russian Federation.

Russia is also not be allowed to host or bid to host any major sporting events. If Russia had already won a bid, the hosting rights are to be transferred to another country unless "it is legally or practically impossible to do so." The ban has threatened Saint Petersburg's staging of three games and a quarter-final for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/euro-2020-qualifiers-with-20-out-of-24-berths-filled-england-france-italy-top-their-groups-263461">Euro 2020</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The appeal is the latest in Russia’s doping saga which is being dragged since 2015 which found more than 1000 Russian athletes being benefited from the state-supported doping program in the period of 2011-2015, a period that included 2014 winter Olympics that were held in Russia.

By: Mallika Singh Russia on Friday formally contested the four-year doping ban imposed on the country’s participation in all major sporting events including Tokyo 2020 after World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) ruled to punish the country for manipulating laboratory data on December 9.

By: Mallika Singh Russia on Friday formally contested the four-year doping ban imposed on the country’s participation in all major sporting events including Tokyo 2020 after World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) ruled to punish the country for manipulating laboratory data on December 9. The Russian Anti-Doping Agency in a letter to WADA sent a notice of disagreement for the sanctions, RUSADA director general Yury Ganus told reporters in Moscow. "In accordance with established procedure, today we have sent a package of documents to WADA," said Ganus. "The package contains a notice about disagreement with WADA sanctions." Russia on December 19 had announced its decision to appeal against the imposed ban that bars Russian athletes from competing under the Russian flag. "RUSADA will appeal against the WADA decision within 10 to 15 days," RUSADA supervisory board chairman Alexander Ivlev had declared. Ganus also sent the anti-doping agency a letter citing his personal stance on the matter. "I regret to inform you that all my attempts including attempts to introduce changes to the RUSADA notice have failed," said the letter. Russia’s leadership including President Vladimir Putin as being “politically motivated” and contradictory to the Olympic Charter. "If WADA does not have any issues with our national Olympic committee our team must compete under its flag," Putin said during an annual end-of-year news conference, insisting that most of Russia's athletes were clean. "If a majority of our athletes are clean how is it possible to slap sanctions against them for someone else's actions?" Putin added. WADA’s executive committee unanimously issued a ban against Russia after its Compliance Review Committee (CRC) called for the proposed sanctions in a 26-page report declaring RUSADA to be non-compliant after the data handed over by the tainted Moscow laboratory was found to be "neither complete nor fully authentic". Russia is currently facing a four-year ban on participation in international sporting events. Russian athletes and their personnel support are only to be allowed to participate if they can prove that they are not associated with the Russian doping scandal, even then they will not be allowed to represent the Russian Federation. Russia is also not be allowed to host or bid to host any major sporting events. If Russia had already won a bid, the hosting rights are to be transferred to another country unless "it is legally or practically impossible to do so." The ban has threatened Saint Petersburg's staging of three games and a quarter-final for Euro 2020. The appeal is the latest in Russia’s doping saga which is being dragged since 2015 which found more than 1000 Russian athletes being benefited from the state-supported doping program in the period of 2011-2015, a period that included 2014 winter Olympics that were held in Russia.

Russia officially challenges four year doping ban

olympic

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