Japan's Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto became Tokyo 2020's new president on Thursday, capping an embarrassing sexism row with just over five months until the virus-postponed Games.

Hashimoto, a seven-time Olympian who competed in speed skating and as a sprint cyclist, was one of just two women in Japan's cabinet before stepping down to take the key post.

She replaces 83-year-old Yoshiro Mori, who resigned after claiming that women speak too much in meetings, sparking outcry in Japan and abroad.

"I will spare no effort for the success of the Tokyo Games," Hashimoto said after being formally appointed, calling virus countermeasures "the top priority."

She pledged to work to "ensure that the public both domestically and abroad feel this is going to be a safe and secure Olympic Games."

Hashimoto submitted her resignation earlier Thursday to Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who she said had offered "kind words", and asked her to "give all my strength to create a Tokyo Games that will be embraced by the Japanese people."

A committee with a 50-50 gender split was formed to find a successor to Mori last week, with Hashimoto immediately among the leading candidates.

Tokyo 2020's executive board met earlier Thursday to hear the results of the committee's deliberations with 2020 vice-president Toshiaki Endo saying a quick decision was needed.

Mori's departure was "enormously damaging from the viewpoint of preparation five months before the Games," Endo said.

"We need to make a decision on the new president as soon as possible, though it is necessary that it goes through appropriate procedures, given the issue has attracted attention at home and abroad," he added.

<h2>- Uphill struggle for public support -</h2>

Hashimoto, 56, appeared at both winter and summer Games and was also serving as minister for gender equality and women's empowerment.

But she has been involved in controversy, facing a sexual harassment scandal in 2014 after photos emerged of her hugging and kissing a male figure skater over 20 years her junior.

The skater said he did not think he had been harassed by the married Hashimoto, who apologised for any "misunderstanding" caused by the photos.

Keiko Kojima, an essayist and commentator on gender issues in Japan, said Hashimoto would need to address that controversy head-on.

"If she properly addresses that and her thoughts on gender equality as she takes up the post, then I think it will be fine," Kojima told AFP.

Hashimoto's nomination comes after Mori's attempt to handpick his successor -- he proposed an 84-year-old ex-footballer -- was nixed following public criticism.

Kojima said the process that resulted in Hashimoto's selection had been transparent and "worthy of praise".

The former minister had reportedly been reluctant to take on the job, and she will face an uphill struggle to win over the public on the Games, which are due to open on July 23.

Polls show around 80 percent of people in Japan back either cancellation or further postponement.

Organisers have tried to quell the disquiet by releasing virus rulebooks -- but doubts persist, with Tokyo and other regions currently under a Covid-19 state of emergency.

The first Olympic test event of 2021 has already been postponed because of tightened border restrictions under the measures.

"There are only five months to go, and putting on a safe and secure Games is going to be of utmost importance, with the understanding of the people of Japan," Endo said earlier Thursday.

Ex-Tokyo 2020 chief Mori, a former prime minister, resigned after domestic and international outcry over remarks he made in early February to members of the Japanese Olympic Committee.

He apologised for the sexist remarks, while insisting he was repeating complaints made by others, but then dug a deeper hole when he explained that he "doesn't speak to women much".

Japan's Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto became Tokyo 2020's new president on Thursday, capping an embarrassing sexism row with just over five months until the virus-postponed Games.

Japan's Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto became Tokyo 2020's new president on Thursday, capping an embarrassing sexism row with just over five months until the virus-postponed Games. Hashimoto, a seven-time Olympian who competed in speed skating and as a sprint cyclist, was one of just two women in Japan's cabinet before stepping down to take the key post. She replaces 83-year-old Yoshiro Mori, who resigned after claiming that women speak too much in meetings, sparking outcry in Japan and abroad. "I will spare no effort for the success of the Tokyo Games," Hashimoto said after being formally appointed, calling virus countermeasures "the top priority." She pledged to work to "ensure that the public both domestically and abroad feel this is going to be a safe and secure Olympic Games." Hashimoto submitted her resignation earlier Thursday to Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who she said had offered "kind words", and asked her to "give all my strength to create a Tokyo Games that will be embraced by the Japanese people." A committee with a 50-50 gender split was formed to find a successor to Mori last week, with Hashimoto immediately among the leading candidates. Tokyo 2020's executive board met earlier Thursday to hear the results of the committee's deliberations with 2020 vice-president Toshiaki Endo saying a quick decision was needed. Mori's departure was "enormously damaging from the viewpoint of preparation five months before the Games," Endo said. "We need to make a decision on the new president as soon as possible, though it is necessary that it goes through appropriate procedures, given the issue has attracted attention at home and abroad," he added. - Uphill struggle for public support - Hashimoto, 56, appeared at both winter and summer Games and was also serving as minister for gender equality and women's empowerment. But she has been involved in controversy, facing a sexual harassment scandal in 2014 after photos emerged of her hugging and kissing a male figure skater over 20 years her junior. The skater said he did not think he had been harassed by the married Hashimoto, who apologised for any "misunderstanding" caused by the photos. Keiko Kojima, an essayist and commentator on gender issues in Japan, said Hashimoto would need to address that controversy head-on. "If she properly addresses that and her thoughts on gender equality as she takes up the post, then I think it will be fine," Kojima told AFP. Hashimoto's nomination comes after Mori's attempt to handpick his successor -- he proposed an 84-year-old ex-footballer -- was nixed following public criticism. Kojima said the process that resulted in Hashimoto's selection had been transparent and "worthy of praise". The former minister had reportedly been reluctant to take on the job, and she will face an uphill struggle to win over the public on the Games, which are due to open on July 23. Polls show around 80 percent of people in Japan back either cancellation or further postponement. Organisers have tried to quell the disquiet by releasing virus rulebooks -- but doubts persist, with Tokyo and other regions currently under a Covid-19 state of emergency. The first Olympic test event of 2021 has already been postponed because of tightened border restrictions under the measures. "There are only five months to go, and putting on a safe and secure Games is going to be of utmost importance, with the understanding of the people of Japan," Endo said earlier Thursday. Ex-Tokyo 2020 chief Mori, a former prime minister, resigned after domestic and international outcry over remarks he made in early February to members of the Japanese Olympic Committee. He apologised for the sexist remarks, while insisting he was repeating complaints made by others, but then dug a deeper hole when he explained that he "doesn't speak to women much".

Seiko Hashimoto named Tokyo 2020 chief after sexism row

Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori on Tuesday said that the postponed Olympics will happen "however coronavirus evolves", reported AFP. Mori's comments come after Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons as the latter said that he is confident that the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead as scheduled and will be&nbsp;"a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

"We'll certainly go ahead however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves," he told a meeting of Olympic organisers and members of Japan's ruling party in Tokyo.&nbsp;

"We must go beyond discussion about whether we will hold it or not. It's about how we will do it. Let's think about a new kind of Olympics on this occasion," he added.

There have been dark clouds hovering over the postponed Games but the organisers are optimistic that the quadrennial event will go ahead without a hitch. The organisers have repeatedly said that Tokyo Olympics 2020 will go ahead as scheduled but question marks remain over whether crowds will be allowed or not amid the pandemic.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Tuesday told the steering committee of the lower house of parliament the government intends to extend the state of emergency in 10 prefectures, including Tokyo, by one month through March 7.

Stringent border restrictions imposed after COVID-19 infections spike have already forced the postponement of some sporting fixtures including 2021's first Olympic test event, which was scheduled for March.

The nationwide Olympic torch relay is still due to begin on March 25.

The Tokyo 2020 organisers are expected to chalk out further details of their extensive COVID-19 countermeasures that they have devised for the Games. However, the majority of the public have opposed to holding the Games this year. A total of 80 per cent of Japanese people&nbsp;asked in a January survey backing either further postponement or a cancellation.

Organisers have said neither of those options are on the table, and have received strong support from both the International Olympic Committee and athletes around the world.

(From AFP inputs)

Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori on Tuesday said that the postponed Olympics will happen "however coronavirus evolves", reported AFP. Mori's comments come after Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons as the latter said that he is confident that the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead as scheduled and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori on Tuesday said that the postponed Olympics will happen "however coronavirus evolves", reported AFP. Mori's comments come after Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons as the latter said that he is confident that the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead as scheduled and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators. "We'll certainly go ahead however the coronavirus (pandemic) evolves," he told a meeting of Olympic organisers and members of Japan's ruling party in Tokyo. "We must go beyond discussion about whether we will hold it or not. It's about how we will do it. Let's think about a new kind of Olympics on this occasion," he added. There have been dark clouds hovering over the postponed Games but the organisers are optimistic that the quadrennial event will go ahead without a hitch. The organisers have repeatedly said that Tokyo Olympics 2020 will go ahead as scheduled but question marks remain over whether crowds will be allowed or not amid the pandemic. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Tuesday told the steering committee of the lower house of parliament the government intends to extend the state of emergency in 10 prefectures, including Tokyo, by one month through March 7. Stringent border restrictions imposed after COVID-19 infections spike have already forced the postponement of some sporting fixtures including 2021's first Olympic test event, which was scheduled for March. The nationwide Olympic torch relay is still due to begin on March 25. The Tokyo 2020 organisers are expected to chalk out further details of their extensive COVID-19 countermeasures that they have devised for the Games. However, the majority of the public have opposed to holding the Games this year. A total of 80 per cent of Japanese people asked in a January survey backing either further postponement or a cancellation. Organisers have said neither of those options are on the table, and have received strong support from both the International Olympic Committee and athletes around the world. (From AFP inputs)

Olympics will happen 'however coronavirus evolves': Tokyo 2020 chief

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin.

But the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee said it was still "confident" that American athletes will be able to participate this summer in Tokyo.

The warning came in a travel advisory issued by the State Department as Japan, which has been criticized for its slow inoculation rate, opened its first mass vaccination centers in a push ahead of the Olympics, which were postponed last year due to the pandemic.

The decision was based primarily on government health advice, as well as "secondary factors such as  commercial flight availability,  restrictions on US citizen entry, and impediments to obtaining Covid test results within three calendar days," the advisory said. 

Just two percent of Japan's population of 125 million has been fully vaccinated so far.

The government aims to finish inoculating the over-65s by late July, when the Olympics begin, but ministers say the Games do not figure in their rollout schedule, and no date has been announced for other age groups.

In Tokyo, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the US advisory would not affect the Olympics.

"It is our understanding that there is no change to the US position to support Japan's effort to hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he told a regular briefing.

He said Japan had been briefed that the advisory would not impact the US Olympic team and noted the measure was not a ban.

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee also played down the impact of the travel advisory.

"We feel confident that the current mitigation practices in place for athletes and staff... coupled with the testing before travel, on arrival in Japan, and during Games time, will allow for safe participation of Team USA athletes this summer," it said in a statement.

A State Department spokesman said Washington understands "the careful considerations that the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee are weighing as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics this summer."

"President Biden proudly supports the US athletes who have trained for these Games and will be competing in the best traditions of the Olympic spirit," he said.

Japan has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak, with around 12,000 deaths overall, but a recent surge in infections has put hospitals under strain.

Tokyo, Osaka and eight other regions are under a state of emergency curbing commercial activity until the end of May, with reports saying the measures could be extended.

Public opinion is largely opposed to holding the Olympics this summer but organizers say the event can be held safely.

The majority of athletes and others staying in the Olympic village will be vaccinated before they enter Japan, but inoculation is not required to participate.

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin.

The United States warned its citizens Monday not to travel to Olympic host Japan, citing the growing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Asian nation just two months before the Games begin. But the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee said it was still "confident" that American athletes will be able to participate this summer in Tokyo. The warning came in a travel advisory issued by the State Department as Japan, which has been criticized for its slow inoculation rate, opened its first mass vaccination centers in a push ahead of the Olympics, which were postponed last year due to the pandemic. The decision was based primarily on government health advice, as well as "secondary factors such as  commercial flight availability,  restrictions on US citizen entry, and impediments to obtaining Covid test results within three calendar days," the advisory said.  Just two percent of Japan's population of 125 million has been fully vaccinated so far. The government aims to finish inoculating the over-65s by late July, when the Olympics begin, but ministers say the Games do not figure in their rollout schedule, and no date has been announced for other age groups. In Tokyo, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the US advisory would not affect the Olympics. "It is our understanding that there is no change to the US position to support Japan's effort to hold the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he told a regular briefing. He said Japan had been briefed that the advisory would not impact the US Olympic team and noted the measure was not a ban. The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee also played down the impact of the travel advisory. "We feel confident that the current mitigation practices in place for athletes and staff... coupled with the testing before travel, on arrival in Japan, and during Games time, will allow for safe participation of Team USA athletes this summer," it said in a statement. A State Department spokesman said Washington understands "the careful considerations that the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee are weighing as they prepare for the Tokyo Olympics this summer." "President Biden proudly supports the US athletes who have trained for these Games and will be competing in the best traditions of the Olympic spirit," he said. Japan has seen a relatively small coronavirus outbreak, with around 12,000 deaths overall, but a recent surge in infections has put hospitals under strain. Tokyo, Osaka and eight other regions are under a state of emergency curbing commercial activity until the end of May, with reports saying the measures could be extended. Public opinion is largely opposed to holding the Olympics this summer but organizers say the event can be held safely. The majority of athletes and others staying in the Olympic village will be vaccinated before they enter Japan, but inoculation is not required to participate.

Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan

Olympic chief Thomas Bach will visit Japan by mid-July, the IOC has announced, after he was forced to cancel a planned trip this month over virus restrictions.

International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates said in a letter to officials published late Wednesday that Bach would arrive by July 12 -- less than two weeks before the virus-postponed Games are set to begin.

Bach had originally planned to visit in May, but was forced to scrap the trip with parts of Japan under a virus state of emergency.

He had planned to take part in the Olympic torch relay in Hiroshima, at the city's atomic bomb Peace Memorial Park. But virus restrictions mean the event was held without spectators.

Public sentiment is against the Games, with polls showing a majority of Japanese want the event delayed further or cancelled.

Organisers have outlined extensive virus countermeasures to keep the Games safe, including barring overseas fans for the first time ever.

But with Japan battling a fourth wave of infections, doctors' associations have warned that the healthcare system is already overstretched and the Games could add further stress.

IOC officials are currently hunkered with local organisers for three days of online talks that began Wednesday.

Bach announced in opening remarks that he believes more than 80 percent of athletes and team members staying at the Olympic village will be vaccinated by the time the Games open on July 23.

He also said the IOC was willing to bring extra medical personnel to reduce the burden on Japan's healthcare system.

Local media reported Thursday that the total number of people entering Japan from overseas for the Olympics and Paralympics would be halved, as organisers look to allay public anxiety over the Games.

Around 94,000, they said, would arrive from abroad -- including athletes, coaches, backroom staff, officials, IOC members, media and broadcasters -- down from an original estimate of 200,000.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach will visit Japan by mid-July, the IOC has announced, after he was forced to cancel a planned trip this month over virus restrictions. International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates said in a letter to officials published late Wednesday that Bach would arrive by July 12 -- less than two weeks before the virus-postponed Games are set to begin.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach will visit Japan by mid-July, the IOC has announced, after he was forced to cancel a planned trip this month over virus restrictions. International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates said in a letter to officials published late Wednesday that Bach would arrive by July 12 -- less than two weeks before the virus-postponed Games are set to begin. Bach had originally planned to visit in May, but was forced to scrap the trip with parts of Japan under a virus state of emergency. He had planned to take part in the Olympic torch relay in Hiroshima, at the city's atomic bomb Peace Memorial Park. But virus restrictions mean the event was held without spectators. Public sentiment is against the Games, with polls showing a majority of Japanese want the event delayed further or cancelled. Organisers have outlined extensive virus countermeasures to keep the Games safe, including barring overseas fans for the first time ever. But with Japan battling a fourth wave of infections, doctors' associations have warned that the healthcare system is already overstretched and the Games could add further stress. IOC officials are currently hunkered with local organisers for three days of online talks that began Wednesday. Bach announced in opening remarks that he believes more than 80 percent of athletes and team members staying at the Olympic village will be vaccinated by the time the Games open on July 23. He also said the IOC was willing to bring extra medical personnel to reduce the burden on Japan's healthcare system. Local media reported Thursday that the total number of people entering Japan from overseas for the Olympics and Paralympics would be halved, as organisers look to allay public anxiety over the Games. Around 94,000, they said, would arrive from abroad -- including athletes, coaches, backroom staff, officials, IOC members, media and broadcasters -- down from an original estimate of 200,000.

IOC chief's delayed pre-Olympics Japan trip to happen by mid-July

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll showed on Monday, underlining public antipathy less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.

The latest downbeat survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of infections.

The surge in cases has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout.

The weekend poll by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement.

Those figures are up from 35 per cent who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent who wanted a further delay.

"I am one of those in the 80 per cent. I think the Olympics should be postponed. Is it that difficult to postpone it?" passer-by Sumiko Usui, 74, told AFP in Tokyo.

Takahiro Yoshida, 53, also expressed doubts over the event, which involves thousands of overseas athletes, officials and media.

"In my honest opinion, it will be difficult to hold the Games... Athletes from overseas must be worried as well,&nbsp;because&nbsp;Japan's coronavirus&nbsp;situation is bad," he said.

"I want to see it happen, but it will probably be difficult when you think about the bigger picture."

Only 14 percent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 percent, according to the Asahi poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls.

If the Games go ahead, 59 percent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 percent backing lower fan numbers and three percent a regular-capacity Games.

<h2>- Mass vaccinations -</h2>

For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer.

A separate poll by Kyodo News published Sunday showed 59.7 percent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option.

Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe.

But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus.

Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner".

"We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services.

Japan has seen a smaller Covid-19 outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for its vaccine rollout.

The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic.

Thousands of slots were snapped up on Monday as online bookings opened for two mass vaccination centres which will deliver up to 10,000 shots a day in Tokyo and 5,000 in Osaka, initially to the elderly.

All 25,000 available slots were already booked up in Osaka, the centre said, while around 21,000 reservations were made in Tokyo.

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll showed on Monday, underlining public antipathy less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games.

More than 80 per cent of Japanese oppose hosting the virus-postponed Olympics this year, a new poll showed on Monday, underlining public antipathy less than 10 weeks before the Tokyo Games. The latest downbeat survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave of infections. The surge in cases has put pressure on the country's healthcare system, with medical professionals repeatedly warning about shortages and burnout. The weekend poll by the Asahi Shimbun daily found 43 per cent of respondents want the 2020 Games cancelled, and 40 per cent want a further postponement. Those figures are up from 35 per cent who backed cancellation in a survey by the paper a month ago, and 34 per cent who wanted a further delay. "I am one of those in the 80 per cent. I think the Olympics should be postponed. Is it that difficult to postpone it?" passer-by Sumiko Usui, 74, told AFP in Tokyo. Takahiro Yoshida, 53, also expressed doubts over the event, which involves thousands of overseas athletes, officials and media. "In my honest opinion, it will be difficult to hold the Games... Athletes from overseas must be worried as well, because Japan's coronavirus situation is bad," he said. "I want to see it happen, but it will probably be difficult when you think about the bigger picture." Only 14 percent support holding the Games this summer as scheduled, down from 28 percent, according to the Asahi poll of 1,527 replies from 3,191 telephone calls. If the Games go ahead, 59 percent of respondents said they want no spectators, with 33 percent backing lower fan numbers and three percent a regular-capacity Games. - Mass vaccinations - For months, polling has found a majority in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer. A separate poll by Kyodo News published Sunday showed 59.7 percent back cancellation, though further postponement was not listed as an option. Olympic organisers say tough anti-virus measures, including regular testing of athletes and a ban on overseas fans, will keep the Games safe. But the Kyodo poll found 87.7 per cent of respondents worry that an influx of athletes and staff members from abroad may spread the virus. Asked about the polls, government spokesman Katsunobu Kato said the government would "make efforts so that the Japanese people understand the Tokyo Games will be held in a safe and secure manner". "We need to give explanations on details of the concrete (coronavirus) measures," he said, insisting that the Games would not put further pressure on medical services. Japan has seen a smaller Covid-19 outbreak than many countries, with fewer than 11,500 deaths so far. But the government has come under pressure for its vaccine rollout. The Kyodo poll found 85 per cent of respondents considered the rollout slow, with 71.5 per cent unhappy with the government's handling of the pandemic. Thousands of slots were snapped up on Monday as online bookings opened for two mass vaccination centres which will deliver up to 10,000 shots a day in Tokyo and 5,000 in Osaka, initially to the elderly. All 25,000 available slots were already booked up in Osaka, the centre said, while around 21,000 reservations were made in Tokyo.

Over 80 per cent in Japan oppose Olympics this year: poll

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages.<o:p></o:p>

The man was given the opportunity to ask the last question of the press conference after the remote meeting of the IOC Executive Board. He straightaway raised a banner to the camera, which red “No Olympics in Tokyo” and went on to repeat "no Olympics anywhere" and "f*** the Olympics".<o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics anywhere," the man said.<o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics anywhere, f*** the Olympics, we don’t want the Olympics anywhere. <o:p></o:p>

"No Olympics in LA, No Olympics in Tokyo."

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The protestor was cut by IOC’s Presidential spokesperson Mark Adams and the organization later deleted the video of the incident in the press briefing.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo 2020 was the main focus of the meeting as Adams insisted the quadrennial event will go ahead as scheduled despite the state of emergency in Japan due to the rising cases of COVID-19 and dismal public support to host the event in the capital.

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Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said: "There is slander on social media directed toward athletes and individuals, creating a lot of anxiety for them and it pains my heart. They should not criticise the athletes, they should criticise me the president of the organising committee."<o:p></o:p>

"I personally can't stand that the criticism and calls to cancel or boycott the Olympics are being aimed at the athletes themselves. The athletes should be able to attend the Games with confidence but they're not able to voice that. So we need to ensure we have the proper measures in place to make the Olympics comfortable for athletes,” she added.<o:p></o:p>

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages.

A protestor disguised as a journalist gatecrashed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) virtual press conference on Wednesday as he unfurled a banner while shouting profanities and repeating anti-Olympic messages. The man was given the opportunity to ask the last question of the press conference after the remote meeting of the IOC Executive Board. He straightaway raised a banner to the camera, which red “No Olympics in Tokyo” and went on to repeat "no Olympics anywhere" and "f*** the Olympics". "No Olympics anywhere," the man said. "No Olympics anywhere, f*** the Olympics, we don’t want the Olympics anywhere. "No Olympics in LA, No Olympics in Tokyo." ALSO READ: IOC confident of successful Tokyo Olympics despite widespread opposition The protestor was cut by IOC’s Presidential spokesperson Mark Adams and the organization later deleted the video of the incident in the press briefing. Tokyo 2020 was the main focus of the meeting as Adams insisted the quadrennial event will go ahead as scheduled despite the state of emergency in Japan due to the rising cases of COVID-19 and dismal public support to host the event in the capital. ALSO READ: Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto said: "There is slander on social media directed toward athletes and individuals, creating a lot of anxiety for them and it pains my heart. They should not criticise the athletes, they should criticise me the president of the organising committee." "I personally can't stand that the criticism and calls to cancel or boycott the Olympics are being aimed at the athletes themselves. The athletes should be able to attend the Games with confidence but they're not able to voice that. So we need to ensure we have the proper measures in place to make the Olympics comfortable for athletes,” she added.

Protestor gatecrashes IOC's virtual press conference, unfurls anti-Olympic banner

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition.<o:p></o:p>

The Games commence on July 23 but the host country is still grappling with the dreaded virus. Several polls show that majority of the Japanese population wants the quadrennial event cancelled or postponed again. <o:p></o:p>

"We are now very much in an implementation phase with 78 days to go and fully concentrated on delivering the Games," IOC spokesman Mark Adams told during a virtual press conference.<o:p></o:p>

"When the Games happen and the Japanese people are proud hosts of an event that will be a historic moment, I think I am very confident we will see public opinion hugely in favour of the Games."

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The virtual press conference, however, was ended abruptly after a protester, signed up as a journalist, asked a question before unfurling a banner that read “No to Olympics” and shouted profanities and “No Olympics anywhere” before being kicked out.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May as cases continue to rise. Even IOC president Thomas Bach’s visit to the country was postponed.

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An opinion survey conducted from May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option.<o:p></o:p>

Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago.<o:p></o:p>

"In terms of Japan and Tokyo we understand the caution," Adams said. "We are fully in solidarity with them. People are very cautious. We have to fully trust Japanese authorities."<o:p></o:p>

"There will be ups and downs (in public opinion).We have to take account of public opinion on a longer-term. As thing stand now we are moving full ahead. We continue to plan for full Games. That's the way it has to be for us."<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it backed Japanese measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 as was confident that the Tokyo Olympics would be a ‘historic’ event despite widespread public opposition. The Games commence on July 23 but the host country is still grappling with the dreaded virus. Several polls show that majority of the Japanese population wants the quadrennial event cancelled or postponed again. "We are now very much in an implementation phase with 78 days to go and fully concentrated on delivering the Games," IOC spokesman Mark Adams told during a virtual press conference. "When the Games happen and the Japanese people are proud hosts of an event that will be a historic moment, I think I am very confident we will see public opinion hugely in favour of the Games." ALSO READ: India's Neeraj Chopra says virus restrictions hit Olympic hopes The virtual press conference, however, was ended abruptly after a protester, signed up as a journalist, asked a question before unfurling a banner that read “No to Olympics” and shouted profanities and “No Olympics anywhere” before being kicked out. Meanwhile, Japan has extended a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other areas until the end of May as cases continue to rise. Even IOC president Thomas Bach’s visit to the country was postponed. ALSO READ: Hesitant Nadal joins chorus of concern about Olympics An opinion survey conducted from May 7-9 by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily showed 59% of respondents wanted the Games cancelled as opposed to 39% who said they should be held. "Postponement" was not offered as an option. Another poll conducted at the weekend by TBS News found 65% wanted the Games cancelled or postponed again. More than 300,000 people have signed a petition to cancel the Games since it was launched about five days ago. "In terms of Japan and Tokyo we understand the caution," Adams said. "We are fully in solidarity with them. People are very cautious. We have to fully trust Japanese authorities." "There will be ups and downs (in public opinion).We have to take account of public opinion on a longer-term. As thing stand now we are moving full ahead. We continue to plan for full Games. That's the way it has to be for us." (With inputs from agencies)

IOC confident of successful Tokyo Olympics despite widespread opposition

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games.

Chopra, a farmer's son from a village outside of Delhi, became a track and field star after winning the javelin gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2018.

Having qualified for the Tokyo Olympics last year, he recorded a personal best of 88.07m in the Indian Grand Prix in March.

But an elbow injury in 2019 and then the pandemic have robbed him of the chance to get closer to the world's best.

"I need to compete in international tournaments," the 23-year-old told a virtual press conference.

"If we cannot take part in competitions then what is the use of training. To rise to the Olympic level, you need international exposure."

Germany's Johannes Vetter leads the current javelin rankings with a personal best of 97.76m.

"I am close to breaching the 90-metre mark and can do it if I get competition," said Chopra.&nbsp;

"The present group of seven or eight javelin throwers across the globe is the best in history with everyone recording over 90m.

"It is my first Olympics, like many others, so your confidence must be high. And we will get this confidence through these events."

Chopra and the rest of India's best athletes missed a recent trip to Turkey for training and competition due to a 14-day quarantine.

Doubts have been expressed about the viability of the Tokyo Games because of a pandemic surge in Asia, but Chopra said athletes have to keep their focus.

"We have to stay positive to prepare for the Olympics amid this negative atmosphere where there is a raging pandemic and so many people are dying," said Chopra, who received a first dose of a vaccine two weeks ago.

"We just have to keep preparing as athletes despite the uncertainty surrounding the Olympics."

India has been hit by a devastating new coronavirus wave in recent weeks, recording over 250,000 deaths as hospitals battle shortages of medical oxygen and beds.

Chopra said he has shut out news broadcasts to focus on his Olympic preparation.

"I have stopped listening to any kind of news on the mobile or TV as everywhere there are stories of Covid positive cases and deaths," he said from his room at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala.

"It plays on the mind, as even while talking to family members the talk is about deaths of distant relatives. So we are trying to stay away from this and maintain our focus."

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games.

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra said Wednesday that the lack of international competition because of coronavirus restrictions has badly hampered preparations for his first Olympic Games. Chopra, a farmer's son from a village outside of Delhi, became a track and field star after winning the javelin gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2018. Having qualified for the Tokyo Olympics last year, he recorded a personal best of 88.07m in the Indian Grand Prix in March. But an elbow injury in 2019 and then the pandemic have robbed him of the chance to get closer to the world's best. "I need to compete in international tournaments," the 23-year-old told a virtual press conference. "If we cannot take part in competitions then what is the use of training. To rise to the Olympic level, you need international exposure." Germany's Johannes Vetter leads the current javelin rankings with a personal best of 97.76m. "I am close to breaching the 90-metre mark and can do it if I get competition," said Chopra. "The present group of seven or eight javelin throwers across the globe is the best in history with everyone recording over 90m. "It is my first Olympics, like many others, so your confidence must be high. And we will get this confidence through these events." Chopra and the rest of India's best athletes missed a recent trip to Turkey for training and competition due to a 14-day quarantine. Doubts have been expressed about the viability of the Tokyo Games because of a pandemic surge in Asia, but Chopra said athletes have to keep their focus. "We have to stay positive to prepare for the Olympics amid this negative atmosphere where there is a raging pandemic and so many people are dying," said Chopra, who received a first dose of a vaccine two weeks ago. "We just have to keep preparing as athletes despite the uncertainty surrounding the Olympics." India has been hit by a devastating new coronavirus wave in recent weeks, recording over 250,000 deaths as hospitals battle shortages of medical oxygen and beds. Chopra said he has shut out news broadcasts to focus on his Olympic preparation. "I have stopped listening to any kind of news on the mobile or TV as everywhere there are stories of Covid positive cases and deaths," he said from his room at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala. "It plays on the mind, as even while talking to family members the talk is about deaths of distant relatives. So we are trying to stay away from this and maintain our focus."

India's Neeraj Chopra says virus restrictions hit Olympic hopes

International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach has been forced to postpone a visit to Japan, organisers said Monday, after a coronavirus state of emergency was extended less than three months before the Tokyo Games.

Bach's trip was scheduled for May 17-18 but organisers "decided to postpone it based on various situations including the (government's) extension of a virus state of emergency".

It is just the latest coronavirus disruption for the postponed 2020 Games, which have seen several test events cancelled, postponed or moved.

An athletics test event involving more than 400 competitors took place behind closed doors at Tokyo's Olympic Stadium on Sunday.

The Japanese government and Olympic officials insist the virus-postponed Games can go ahead safely this summer, although polls show most Japanese people support cancellation or another delay.

In a statement, the Tokyo 2020 organising committee said it hoped the visit could go ahead "as soon as possible" and would continue to assess the coronavirus situation. Japanese media said organisers planned to reschedule Bach's visit for June.

Japan's state of emergency, which is less strict than blanket lockdowns in other countries, was last week extended to the end of May in the hardest hit regions, including Tokyo.

Seiko Hashimoto, president of the Tokyo 2020 Games, said Friday it would be "very difficult" to arrange the visit given the state of emergency.

Japan's Covid-19 outbreak remains much smaller than in many countries, with around 10,800 deaths.

But its vaccine rollout is moving slowly and some areas have seen record cases as more infectious variants drive fresh waves of contagion.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga was forced on the defensive on Monday, insisting in parliament he has "never put the Olympics first" and that his priority remains "the lives and health of the Japanese people".

<h2>-&nbsp;Torch relay hit -</h2>

IOC vice-president John Coates told AFP on Saturday that nothing could stop the Tokyo Olympics from going ahead,&nbsp;despite ongoing risks from Covid-19.

More than 10,000 athletes from 200 countries and regions are set to travel to Tokyo for the Games, with a decision on how many domestic fans -- if any -- can attend set for June.

A poll published Monday by Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun daily found 59 percent of respondents want to cancel the postponed 2020 Games, which will open on July 23. The poll did not offer the option of a further postponement.

A separate survey by the TBS broadcaster found 37 percent back cancellation, while 28 percent want the Games delayed again.

And an online petition urging the Games to be cancelled has gathered more than 315,000 signatures since Wednesday.

But Games organisers insist the mega-event can be held safely with strict virus rules.

US drugs giant Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech on Thursday announced a deal with the IOC to provide vaccines to athletes and their delegations.

Japan's own vaccine programme is progressing cautiously, however, with around one percent of the population having received two shots so far.

An increasing number of sections of the Olympic torch relay have been scaled back and moved off-road to prevent people from gathering to watch.

Japanese media reported on Monday that two more regions will scrap the public relay -- Hyogo prefecture, which is under the state of emergency, and Okayama, also seeing a surge in virus cases.

International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach has been forced to postpone a visit to Japan, organisers said Monday, after a coronavirus state of emergency was extended less than three months before the Tokyo Games.

International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach has been forced to postpone a visit to Japan, organisers said Monday, after a coronavirus state of emergency was extended less than three months before the Tokyo Games. Bach's trip was scheduled for May 17-18 but organisers "decided to postpone it based on various situations including the (government's) extension of a virus state of emergency". It is just the latest coronavirus disruption for the postponed 2020 Games, which have seen several test events cancelled, postponed or moved. An athletics test event involving more than 400 competitors took place behind closed doors at Tokyo's Olympic Stadium on Sunday. The Japanese government and Olympic officials insist the virus-postponed Games can go ahead safely this summer, although polls show most Japanese people support cancellation or another delay. In a statement, the Tokyo 2020 organising committee said it hoped the visit could go ahead "as soon as possible" and would continue to assess the coronavirus situation. Japanese media said organisers planned to reschedule Bach's visit for June. Japan's state of emergency, which is less strict than blanket lockdowns in other countries, was last week extended to the end of May in the hardest hit regions, including Tokyo. Seiko Hashimoto, president of the Tokyo 2020 Games, said Friday it would be "very difficult" to arrange the visit given the state of emergency. Japan's Covid-19 outbreak remains much smaller than in many countries, with around 10,800 deaths. But its vaccine rollout is moving slowly and some areas have seen record cases as more infectious variants drive fresh waves of contagion. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga was forced on the defensive on Monday, insisting in parliament he has "never put the Olympics first" and that his priority remains "the lives and health of the Japanese people". - Torch relay hit - IOC vice-president John Coates told AFP on Saturday that nothing could stop the Tokyo Olympics from going ahead, despite ongoing risks from Covid-19. More than 10,000 athletes from 200 countries and regions are set to travel to Tokyo for the Games, with a decision on how many domestic fans -- if any -- can attend set for June. A poll published Monday by Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun daily found 59 percent of respondents want to cancel the postponed 2020 Games, which will open on July 23. The poll did not offer the option of a further postponement. A separate survey by the TBS broadcaster found 37 percent back cancellation, while 28 percent want the Games delayed again. And an online petition urging the Games to be cancelled has gathered more than 315,000 signatures since Wednesday. But Games organisers insist the mega-event can be held safely with strict virus rules. US drugs giant Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech on Thursday announced a deal with the IOC to provide vaccines to athletes and their delegations. Japan's own vaccine programme is progressing cautiously, however, with around one percent of the population having received two shots so far. An increasing number of sections of the Olympic torch relay have been scaled back and moved off-road to prevent people from gathering to watch. Japanese media reported on Monday that two more regions will scrap the public relay -- Hyogo prefecture, which is under the state of emergency, and Okayama, also seeing a surge in virus cases.

Olympic chief's Japan visit postponed over virus as Games loom

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka said Sunday she favoured a "discussion" taking place over the Olympic Games taking place as Tokyo reels from a new coronavirus surge.

A virus state of emergency in Japan's capital city and other parts of the country was extended on Friday, less than three months before the delayed Games are due to begin.

There has been increasing pressure from the Japanese public to cancel the Olympics, which have already been postponed once from its original dates last summer due to the pandemic.

"For me, I feel like if it's putting people at risk and if it's making people very uncomfortable, then it definitely should be a discussion, which I think it is as of right now," the four-time Grand Slam winner said ahead of the Rome WTA tournament.

"Of course I would say I want the Olympics to happen, because I'm an athlete and that's sort of what I have been waiting for my entire life.&nbsp;

"But I think that there is so much important stuff going on, and especially the past year, I think a lot of unexpected things have happened.

"At the end of the day I'm just an athlete, and there is a whole pandemic going on."

More than 10,000 athletes from 200 countries and regions are set to travel to Tokyo for the Games, with a decision on how many domestic fans -- if any -- can attend to be taken in June.

More than 300,000 people have signed an online petition titled "Cancel the Tokyo Olympics to protect our lives", launched Wednesday by a lawyer and former Tokyo gubernatorial candidate.

Japan's has recorded just over 10,500 deaths from Covid-19, much lower than in many other countries, but its vaccine rollout is moving slowly and some areas have seen record cases as more infectious variants drive fresh waves of contagion.

Australian Open champion Osaka confirmed that she had been vaccinated.

"I have gotten vaccinated, so I think that at the end of the day you can't force anyone to be vaccinated, but I think if you're going into the Olympics and whatever makes the host country happy," she continued.

"For me I feel like whatever makes everyone more comfortable and more safe, and I think that, you know, there is going to be a lot of people entering the country so they definitely have to make the right decisions on that."

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka said Sunday she favoured a "discussion" taking place over the Olympic Games taking place as Tokyo reels from a new coronavirus surge.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka said Sunday she favoured a "discussion" taking place over the Olympic Games taking place as Tokyo reels from a new coronavirus surge. A virus state of emergency in Japan's capital city and other parts of the country was extended on Friday, less than three months before the delayed Games are due to begin. There has been increasing pressure from the Japanese public to cancel the Olympics, which have already been postponed once from its original dates last summer due to the pandemic. "For me, I feel like if it's putting people at risk and if it's making people very uncomfortable, then it definitely should be a discussion, which I think it is as of right now," the four-time Grand Slam winner said ahead of the Rome WTA tournament. "Of course I would say I want the Olympics to happen, because I'm an athlete and that's sort of what I have been waiting for my entire life. "But I think that there is so much important stuff going on, and especially the past year, I think a lot of unexpected things have happened. "At the end of the day I'm just an athlete, and there is a whole pandemic going on." More than 10,000 athletes from 200 countries and regions are set to travel to Tokyo for the Games, with a decision on how many domestic fans -- if any -- can attend to be taken in June. More than 300,000 people have signed an online petition titled "Cancel the Tokyo Olympics to protect our lives", launched Wednesday by a lawyer and former Tokyo gubernatorial candidate. Japan's has recorded just over 10,500 deaths from Covid-19, much lower than in many other countries, but its vaccine rollout is moving slowly and some areas have seen record cases as more infectious variants drive fresh waves of contagion. Australian Open champion Osaka confirmed that she had been vaccinated. "I have gotten vaccinated, so I think that at the end of the day you can't force anyone to be vaccinated, but I think if you're going into the Olympics and whatever makes the host country happy," she continued. "For me I feel like whatever makes everyone more comfortable and more safe, and I think that, you know, there is going to be a lot of people entering the country so they definitely have to make the right decisions on that."

Osaka wants 'discussion' on Olympics amid virus surge in Japan

US drugmaker Pfizer and German company BioNTech on Monday announced the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to donate doses of their COVID-19 vaccine in a bid to inoculate athletes and delegations bound for the Tokyo Olympics.<o:p></o:p>

Pfizer and BioNTech are set to supply vaccines as early as the end of May and the move will allow athletes and delegations to complete the vaccinations process by the opening of the Tokyo Olympics in late July.<o:p></o:p>

The International Olympic Committee is likely to discuss the matter with national Olympic committees across the world and provide vaccines as needed. Notably, the states decided whether to offer immunisation to athletes and delegations in accordance with local guidance before they can fly to Japan for the quadrennial event. <o:p></o:p>

However, the IOC and the International Paralympics Committee have said that vaccination is not compulsory for athletes and the process should be conducted in full respect of national vaccination priorities.<o:p></o:p>

"This donation of the vaccine is another tool in our toolbox of measures to help make the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 safe and secure for all participants, and to show solidarity with our gracious Japanese hosts," IOC President Thomas Bach said in a statement. "We are inviting the athletes and participating delegations of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games to lead by example and accept the vaccine, where and when possible."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-watch-fans-warned-off-tokyo-olympics-marathon-test-382938" hreflang="en">'Don't watch' - fans warned off Tokyo Olympics marathon test</a>

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement: "The return of the Olympic and Paralympic Games represents a monumental moment of world unity and peace after a grueling year of isolation and devastation. We are proud to play a role in providing vaccines to athletes and national Olympic delegations."<o:p></o:p>

More than 430 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine have been shipped to 91 countries and territories. The two companies are expected to produce 2.5 billion doses in 2021 and 3 billion doses in 2022. The donation to Olympic athletes will not affect the global vaccine supply, the companies said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/investigation-finds-culture-of-abuse-in-australian-gymnastics-382563" hreflang="en">Investigation finds culture of abuse in Australian gymnastics</a>

Notably, the Japanese government has penned a contract with Pfizer for around 144 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine this year.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

US drugmaker Pfizer and German company BioNTech on Monday announced the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to donate doses of their COVID-19 vaccine in a bid to inoculate athletes and delegations bound for the Tokyo Olympics.

US drugmaker Pfizer and German company BioNTech on Monday announced the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to donate doses of their COVID-19 vaccine in a bid to inoculate athletes and delegations bound for the Tokyo Olympics. Pfizer and BioNTech are set to supply vaccines as early as the end of May and the move will allow athletes and delegations to complete the vaccinations process by the opening of the Tokyo Olympics in late July. The International Olympic Committee is likely to discuss the matter with national Olympic committees across the world and provide vaccines as needed. Notably, the states decided whether to offer immunisation to athletes and delegations in accordance with local guidance before they can fly to Japan for the quadrennial event. However, the IOC and the International Paralympics Committee have said that vaccination is not compulsory for athletes and the process should be conducted in full respect of national vaccination priorities. "This donation of the vaccine is another tool in our toolbox of measures to help make the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 safe and secure for all participants, and to show solidarity with our gracious Japanese hosts," IOC President Thomas Bach said in a statement. "We are inviting the athletes and participating delegations of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games to lead by example and accept the vaccine, where and when possible." ALSO READ: 'Don't watch' - fans warned off Tokyo Olympics marathon test Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement: "The return of the Olympic and Paralympic Games represents a monumental moment of world unity and peace after a grueling year of isolation and devastation. We are proud to play a role in providing vaccines to athletes and national Olympic delegations." More than 430 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine have been shipped to 91 countries and territories. The two companies are expected to produce 2.5 billion doses in 2021 and 3 billion doses in 2022. The donation to Olympic athletes will not affect the global vaccine supply, the companies said. ALSO READ: Investigation finds culture of abuse in Australian gymnastics Notably, the Japanese government has penned a contract with Pfizer for around 144 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine this year.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Pfizer and BioNTech to provide COVID-19 vaccines for athletes

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games.

Scattered onlookers in facemasks clapped but refrained from cheering, to avoid spreading droplets, as Kenya's Hillary Kipkoech&nbsp;won the scaled-back men's half-marathon in 1hr 46sec and Japan's Mao Ichiyama was the women's winner in 1hr 8min 28sec.

Security guards stood with signs around their necks asking people to "please refrain from watching the race" to prevent infections as the event unfolded in a muted atmosphere in the northern city.

The marathon was at the centre of controversy in the original build-up to the 2020 Games, when it was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo to avoid the capital's punishing summer heat.

Wednesday's test attracted disquiet for different reasons, as residents voiced concerns about its potential for spreading the virus.

"We are doing what we can to contain the coronavirus," Shuji Miura, who manages a cafe along the route, told the Asahi Shimbun.

"But it will be completely useless if they hold the rehearsal event before we see any result."

Polls show the majority of people in Japan want a cancellation or further postponement of the 2020 Games, which are due to open on July 23.

Tokyo, Osaka and other regions are currently under a coronavirus state of emergency to bring down surging cases, while the country's vaccine roll-out has been progressing slowly.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said he could understand the "nervousness" in Japan about holding the Olympics during the pandemic.

"We take that nervousness very, very seriously," Coe told reporters.

"We have Covid protocols that have been tried and tested, and I've witnessed them here this morning. We take very seriously the health and wellbeing of local communities."

Coe, who was head of the 2012 London Olympics, said it was "really important that when the world looks to coming out of Covid, coming out of the pandemic, that it can see optimism".

"The Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games will be totemic of that optimism and hope going forward. So it is important that the Games are delivered successfully, and they're delivered safely," he added.

<h2>- Daily tests -</h2>

Around 2,700 people including organisers were involved in Wednesday's event in Sapporo, said top Tokyo 2020 official Yasuo Mori. Sixty-nine runners took part in the half-marathon.

Overseas competitors had to take Covid-19 tests before their departure and on arrival in Japan, and were also tested daily before the event, as will happen at the Olympics.

Mori said no one had tested positive for Covid-19, with the athletes made to stay in hotels with no contact with the public.

Coe said he was sure people in Sapporo, which hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics, would eventually be glad of welcoming the marathon.

"I'm also very sure that the people of Sapporo will be proud historically to be able to claim that they live in a city that has been the host to the Winter Games and also the host to an event in the Summer Games," he said.

The pandemic has severely disrupted test events for the Olympics, with several postponed, cancelled or moved abroad.&nbsp;

This week's Diving World Cup, which doubles as an Olympic qualifier, is taking place behind closed doors in Tokyo.

Olympics organisers are yet to decide how many fans -- if any -- will be allowed at the Games, with overseas spectators already barred from attending.

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games.

Spectators were urged to stay away as a subdued Tokyo Olympics marathon rehearsal took place under strict anti-coronavirus conditions in Sapporo on Wednesday, as officials grapple with a rise in infections and public antipathy to the Games. Scattered onlookers in facemasks clapped but refrained from cheering, to avoid spreading droplets, as Kenya's Hillary Kipkoech won the scaled-back men's half-marathon in 1hr 46sec and Japan's Mao Ichiyama was the women's winner in 1hr 8min 28sec. Security guards stood with signs around their necks asking people to "please refrain from watching the race" to prevent infections as the event unfolded in a muted atmosphere in the northern city. The marathon was at the centre of controversy in the original build-up to the 2020 Games, when it was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo to avoid the capital's punishing summer heat. Wednesday's test attracted disquiet for different reasons, as residents voiced concerns about its potential for spreading the virus. "We are doing what we can to contain the coronavirus," Shuji Miura, who manages a cafe along the route, told the Asahi Shimbun. "But it will be completely useless if they hold the rehearsal event before we see any result." Polls show the majority of people in Japan want a cancellation or further postponement of the 2020 Games, which are due to open on July 23. Tokyo, Osaka and other regions are currently under a coronavirus state of emergency to bring down surging cases, while the country's vaccine roll-out has been progressing slowly. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said he could understand the "nervousness" in Japan about holding the Olympics during the pandemic. "We take that nervousness very, very seriously," Coe told reporters. "We have Covid protocols that have been tried and tested, and I've witnessed them here this morning. We take very seriously the health and wellbeing of local communities." Coe, who was head of the 2012 London Olympics, said it was "really important that when the world looks to coming out of Covid, coming out of the pandemic, that it can see optimism". "The Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games will be totemic of that optimism and hope going forward. So it is important that the Games are delivered successfully, and they're delivered safely," he added. - Daily tests - Around 2,700 people including organisers were involved in Wednesday's event in Sapporo, said top Tokyo 2020 official Yasuo Mori. Sixty-nine runners took part in the half-marathon. Overseas competitors had to take Covid-19 tests before their departure and on arrival in Japan, and were also tested daily before the event, as will happen at the Olympics. Mori said no one had tested positive for Covid-19, with the athletes made to stay in hotels with no contact with the public. Coe said he was sure people in Sapporo, which hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics, would eventually be glad of welcoming the marathon. "I'm also very sure that the people of Sapporo will be proud historically to be able to claim that they live in a city that has been the host to the Winter Games and also the host to an event in the Summer Games," he said. The pandemic has severely disrupted test events for the Olympics, with several postponed, cancelled or moved abroad. This week's Diving World Cup, which doubles as an Olympic qualifier, is taking place behind closed doors in Tokyo. Olympics organisers are yet to decide how many fans -- if any -- will be allowed at the Games, with overseas spectators already barred from attending.

'Don't watch' - fans warned off Tokyo Olympics marathon test

Tokyo Olympics organisers may put off an announcement on how many fans can attend until June, media reported Wednesday, as surging coronavirus infections play havoc with preparations.

Organisers have already barred overseas fans from the pandemic-delayed Games, and were expected to announce an upper limit on domestic spectators sometime in April.

But Japanese reports said the decision was now likely in June, possibly just a month before the Games open on July 23. The move would further delay ticket sales, which were put on hold when the Olympics were postponed last year.

The organising committee said the timing of the decision needed to stay "flexible" as the coronavirus situation develops.

"We&nbsp;remain in discussions&nbsp;with the IOC and IPC (International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee) and intend to reach a consensus on the direction to take," a Tokyo 2020 statement added.

Athletes may also face daily virus testing, rather than once every four days as originally planned, separate reports said.&nbsp;

Japan's sharp rise in cases is causing further disruption for the postponed Games, with a number of test events delayed, cancelled or moved abroad.

In the latest upheaval, an artistic swimming qualifying competition has been moved from Japan, organisers said, and spectators will reportedly be barred from an athletics event at the main Olympic stadium.

The artistic swimming qualifier was originally set to take place in Tokyo in March before being rescheduled to May 1-4, but will now be held in June at "a location to be defined, outside Japan", organisers said late Tuesday.

World swimming governing body FINA said in a statement that "challenges related to the international calendar and the necessary adaptation of the venue to the Olympic Games operations" were behind the decision.

FINA has already rescheduled a Diving World Cup event in Tokyo and moved a marathon swimming Olympic qualifier from Japan to Portugal, amid reported dissatisfaction over virus countermeasures.

Japanese media said Wednesday that an athletics test event -- which will double as a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet and feature athletes from overseas -- will be held without spectators.

Organisers were set to allow 20,000 fans into the May 9 meet, according to Kyodo news agency, but tougher restrictions imposed by the Tokyo city government this month have forced a rethink.

Virus restrictions are expected to be tightened further this week, with Tokyo and several other regions seeking a state of emergency to tackle rising cases.

Despite the situation, Olympic organisers and local officials insist the Games can be held safely. They will unveil updated virus rulebooks later this month.

Tokyo Olympics organisers may put off an announcement on how many fans can attend until June, media reported Wednesday, as surging coronavirus infections play havoc with preparations.

Tokyo Olympics organisers may put off an announcement on how many fans can attend until June, media reported Wednesday, as surging coronavirus infections play havoc with preparations. Organisers have already barred overseas fans from the pandemic-delayed Games, and were expected to announce an upper limit on domestic spectators sometime in April. But Japanese reports said the decision was now likely in June, possibly just a month before the Games open on July 23. The move would further delay ticket sales, which were put on hold when the Olympics were postponed last year. The organising committee said the timing of the decision needed to stay "flexible" as the coronavirus situation develops. "We remain in discussions with the IOC and IPC (International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee) and intend to reach a consensus on the direction to take," a Tokyo 2020 statement added. Athletes may also face daily virus testing, rather than once every four days as originally planned, separate reports said. Japan's sharp rise in cases is causing further disruption for the postponed Games, with a number of test events delayed, cancelled or moved abroad. In the latest upheaval, an artistic swimming qualifying competition has been moved from Japan, organisers said, and spectators will reportedly be barred from an athletics event at the main Olympic stadium. The artistic swimming qualifier was originally set to take place in Tokyo in March before being rescheduled to May 1-4, but will now be held in June at "a location to be defined, outside Japan", organisers said late Tuesday. World swimming governing body FINA said in a statement that "challenges related to the international calendar and the necessary adaptation of the venue to the Olympic Games operations" were behind the decision. FINA has already rescheduled a Diving World Cup event in Tokyo and moved a marathon swimming Olympic qualifier from Japan to Portugal, amid reported dissatisfaction over virus countermeasures. Japanese media said Wednesday that an athletics test event -- which will double as a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet and feature athletes from overseas -- will be held without spectators. Organisers were set to allow 20,000 fans into the May 9 meet, according to Kyodo news agency, but tougher restrictions imposed by the Tokyo city government this month have forced a rethink. Virus restrictions are expected to be tightened further this week, with Tokyo and several other regions seeking a state of emergency to tackle rising cases. Despite the situation, Olympic organisers and local officials insist the Games can be held safely. They will unveil updated virus rulebooks later this month.

Virus surge to delay decision on Olympics fans' attendance till June: reports

A health adviser to Japan's Olympic committee said on Tuesday athletes should have the option of getting COVID-19 vaccines, days after public outcry led the government to deny it was making them a priority.

Japan on Thursday had dismissed a media report that it was considering vaccinating all its Olympians by the end of June after the idea sparked a social media uproar amid a slow vaccine rollout for the rest of the population.

But on Tuesday, the adviser, Nobuhiko Okabe, told Reuters that although vaccines should not be an obligation, they should be available to the athletes who want them. Okabe is an infectious disease expert who helped guide Japan's response to the H1N1 outbreak in 2009 and advises on its COVID-19 response.

"I think the recommendation should be to be immunized, particularly for the athletes," said Okabe, who has held leadership roles in the World Health Organisation.

He said choices by individual athletes to refuse the vaccine for health or religious reasons "should be respected."

About 1.1 million health care workers in Japan have received at least their first dose of Pfizer Inc-BioNTech's vaccine.

Inoculations of the country's sizable elderly population began on Monday, but some experts caution that shots for the general populace may not be available until late summer or even winter because of constrained supplies.

Okabe, who heads the Kawasaki City Institute for Public Health, also said Japan's commercialisation and licensing hurdles involving drugs and medical products remain a "big problem," as they could slow its response to health crisis such as pandemics.

Japan has approved only one COVID-19 vaccine so far and about 0.9% of its population of 126 million has gotten at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, compared with 2.2% in South Korea or 36% in the United States, according to a Reuters tracker.

A health adviser to Japan's Olympic committee said on Tuesday athletes should have the option of getting COVID-19 vaccines, days after public outcry led the government to deny it was making them a priority.

A health adviser to Japan's Olympic committee said on Tuesday athletes should have the option of getting COVID-19 vaccines, days after public outcry led the government to deny it was making them a priority. Japan on Thursday had dismissed a media report that it was considering vaccinating all its Olympians by the end of June after the idea sparked a social media uproar amid a slow vaccine rollout for the rest of the population. But on Tuesday, the adviser, Nobuhiko Okabe, told Reuters that although vaccines should not be an obligation, they should be available to the athletes who want them. Okabe is an infectious disease expert who helped guide Japan's response to the H1N1 outbreak in 2009 and advises on its COVID-19 response. "I think the recommendation should be to be immunized, particularly for the athletes," said Okabe, who has held leadership roles in the World Health Organisation. He said choices by individual athletes to refuse the vaccine for health or religious reasons "should be respected." About 1.1 million health care workers in Japan have received at least their first dose of Pfizer Inc-BioNTech's vaccine. Inoculations of the country's sizable elderly population began on Monday, but some experts caution that shots for the general populace may not be available until late summer or even winter because of constrained supplies. Okabe, who heads the Kawasaki City Institute for Public Health, also said Japan's commercialisation and licensing hurdles involving drugs and medical products remain a "big problem," as they could slow its response to health crisis such as pandemics. Japan has approved only one COVID-19 vaccine so far and about 0.9% of its population of 126 million has gotten at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, compared with 2.2% in South Korea or 36% in the United States, according to a Reuters tracker.

Japan Olympic adviser urges COVID-19 vaccine option for athletes

Tajikstan's Dilshod Nazarov, who won Olympic hammer gold in the 2016 Rio Games, was on Thursday banned for two years for doping, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced.

Re-testing of Nazarov's sample from the 2011 World Athletics Championships in Daegu, South Korea, had shown the presence of a prohibited substance, namely DHCMT, or oral turinabol, a performance-enhancing anabolic steroid.

The AIU declared Nazarov ineligible for two years starting September 24, 2019, and scrubbed his results between August 29, 2011-August 29, 2013.

A three-time Asian champion, Nazarov also won world silver in Beijing in 2015 before claiming his country's first ever Olympic gold medal a year later in Rio.

The 38-year-old, who also competed in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics, finished 10th in the Daegu worlds and fifth two years later in Moscow.

Tajikstan's Dilshod Nazarov, who won Olympic hammer gold in the 2016 Rio Games, was on Thursday banned for two years for doping, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced.

Tajikstan's Dilshod Nazarov, who won Olympic hammer gold in the 2016 Rio Games, was on Thursday banned for two years for doping, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced. Re-testing of Nazarov's sample from the 2011 World Athletics Championships in Daegu, South Korea, had shown the presence of a prohibited substance, namely DHCMT, or oral turinabol, a performance-enhancing anabolic steroid. The AIU declared Nazarov ineligible for two years starting September 24, 2019, and scrubbed his results between August 29, 2011-August 29, 2013. A three-time Asian champion, Nazarov also won world silver in Beijing in 2015 before claiming his country's first ever Olympic gold medal a year later in Rio. The 38-year-old, who also competed in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics, finished 10th in the Daegu worlds and fifth two years later in Moscow.

Tajikstan's Olympic hammer champ Nazarov banned for two years

Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony.

"The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay... will not be open to the public, but it will be broadcast live via a Tokyo 2020 official channel," Tokyo 2020 said in a statement.

The announcement comes ahead of a decision on whether fans from overseas will be allowed to enter Japan for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which is expected to be taken before the torch relay begins on March 25.

Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony. "The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay.

Spectators will be barred from the start of the Tokyo Olympics torch relay, organisers said Monday, announcing a pared-back launch ceremony. "The Grand Start ceremony and the first section of the Fukushima Torch Relay... will not be open to the public, but it will be broadcast live via a Tokyo 2020 official channel," Tokyo 2020 said in a statement. The announcement comes ahead of a decision on whether fans from overseas will be allowed to enter Japan for the coronavirus-delayed Games, which is expected to be taken before the torch relay begins on March 25.

Spectators barred from Tokyo Olympics torch relay start: organisers

The families of athletes competing at the Tokyo Olympics could be barred from entering Japan to watch them, the Games president has suggested in an interview with local media.

The comments came as reports said Japan's government has decided to exclude overseas fans from the coronavirus-delayed Games to reduce the risk of outbreaks.

The decision on foreign fans is expected to be announced when Games organisers and officials from the Japanese and Tokyo governments meet the heads of the International Olympic and Paralympic Committees, likely next week.

And Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto appeared to pour cold water on the prospect of making athletes' families exempt from the ban, telling reporters it would be "difficult".

"This is a chance they may only get once in their lives, so on an emotional level I want families to be able to watch," Hashimoto was quoted as saying by the Mainichi Shimbun daily late Tuesday.

"But we have to think about Japan's medical system, so with a heavy heart I have to say it's difficult."

On Tuesday, Kyodo news agency said the Japanese government had concluded it was "not possible" to allow overseas fans due to "concerns among the Japanese public over the coronavirus and the fact that more contagious variants have been detected in many countries".

The Asahi Shimbun daily said the IOC had asked Japan to make exceptions for overseas guests linked to sponsors, and that the government was considering the request.

A poll by the Yomiuri Shimbun published this week found that more than 75 percent of Japanese opposed overseas fans attending the Games.

Around 900,000 tickets have reportedly been sold outside Japan.

The families of athletes competing at the Tokyo Olympics could be barred from entering Japan to watch them, the Games president has suggested in an interview with local media.

The families of athletes competing at the Tokyo Olympics could be barred from entering Japan to watch them, the Games president has suggested in an interview with local media. The comments came as reports said Japan's government has decided to exclude overseas fans from the coronavirus-delayed Games to reduce the risk of outbreaks. The decision on foreign fans is expected to be announced when Games organisers and officials from the Japanese and Tokyo governments meet the heads of the International Olympic and Paralympic Committees, likely next week. And Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto appeared to pour cold water on the prospect of making athletes' families exempt from the ban, telling reporters it would be "difficult". "This is a chance they may only get once in their lives, so on an emotional level I want families to be able to watch," Hashimoto was quoted as saying by the Mainichi Shimbun daily late Tuesday. "But we have to think about Japan's medical system, so with a heavy heart I have to say it's difficult." On Tuesday, Kyodo news agency said the Japanese government had concluded it was "not possible" to allow overseas fans due to "concerns among the Japanese public over the coronavirus and the fact that more contagious variants have been detected in many countries". The Asahi Shimbun daily said the IOC had asked Japan to make exceptions for overseas guests linked to sponsors, and that the government was considering the request. A poll by the Yomiuri Shimbun published this week found that more than 75 percent of Japanese opposed overseas fans attending the Games. Around 900,000 tickets have reportedly been sold outside Japan.

'Difficult' to have athletes' families at Tokyo Olympics: Games chief

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said.

It will be the second consecutive home Winter Olympics for Lim Hyo-jun, after he won 1500m gold and 500m bronze at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

But last year the 24-year-old was convicted of sexual harassment after he pulled down another male athlete's trousers in front of teammates at the national training centre.

The verdict was overturned on appeal, but the case is now before the South's Supreme Court for a final decision.

The Korea Skating Union suspended Lim for a year in August 2019, and while the penalty has been put on hold during the legal process, if the court finds against him it would rule him out of the Beijing Games.

Lim decided instead to become a naturalised Chinese citizen and skate for China, according to South Korean media reports.

He left for China on Friday after receiving his new passport, South Korean broadcaster MBC said, and was expected to join Beijing's national team after fulfilling his coronavirus quarantine requirements.

Lim made his decision on the basis of what was best for his career, according to his agency Brion.

"As the legal battle dragged on, it has become difficult for Lim to represent South Korea and try to win his second straight Olympic gold medal in Beijing," Yonhap reported, citing a statement from the agency.

He had not been able to train in the South for the past two years, it said, adding: "He just wanted to find ways to put his skates back on."

Lim is not the first South Korean skating star to change his allegiance.

In 2011, Ahn Hyun-soo -- who won three golds at the 2006 Winter Games -- was fast-tracked to Russian citizenship and competed at Sochi as Russian athlete Victor Ahn, after he suffered injury problems and fell out with South Korean skating officials.

South Korea is a regional sporting power and regularly finishes in the top 10 in the medals tables at the summer and winter Olympics.

But in an already intensely competitive society, winning is virtually everything in its sports community -- and physical and verbal abuse are rife.

The nation's short-track speed skating community in particular has faced several serious abuse scandals in recent years.

In January, a former national speed skating coach was sentenced to over a decade in prison for sexually assaulting double Olympic gold medallist Shim Suk-hee.&nbsp;

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said.

A South Korean Olympic short-track speed skating champion banned from the national team for sexual harassment has taken Chinese citizenship and will skate for the hosts at next year's Beijing Winter Games, reports said. It will be the second consecutive home Winter Olympics for Lim Hyo-jun, after he won 1500m gold and 500m bronze at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. But last year the 24-year-old was convicted of sexual harassment after he pulled down another male athlete's trousers in front of teammates at the national training centre. The verdict was overturned on appeal, but the case is now before the South's Supreme Court for a final decision. The Korea Skating Union suspended Lim for a year in August 2019, and while the penalty has been put on hold during the legal process, if the court finds against him it would rule him out of the Beijing Games. Lim decided instead to become a naturalised Chinese citizen and skate for China, according to South Korean media reports. He left for China on Friday after receiving his new passport, South Korean broadcaster MBC said, and was expected to join Beijing's national team after fulfilling his coronavirus quarantine requirements. Lim made his decision on the basis of what was best for his career, according to his agency Brion. "As the legal battle dragged on, it has become difficult for Lim to represent South Korea and try to win his second straight Olympic gold medal in Beijing," Yonhap reported, citing a statement from the agency. He had not been able to train in the South for the past two years, it said, adding: "He just wanted to find ways to put his skates back on." Lim is not the first South Korean skating star to change his allegiance. In 2011, Ahn Hyun-soo -- who won three golds at the 2006 Winter Games -- was fast-tracked to Russian citizenship and competed at Sochi as Russian athlete Victor Ahn, after he suffered injury problems and fell out with South Korean skating officials. South Korea is a regional sporting power and regularly finishes in the top 10 in the medals tables at the summer and winter Olympics. But in an already intensely competitive society, winning is virtually everything in its sports community -- and physical and verbal abuse are rife. The nation's short-track speed skating community in particular has faced several serious abuse scandals in recent years. In January, a former national speed skating coach was sentenced to over a decade in prison for sexually assaulting double Olympic gold medallist Shim Suk-hee.

S. Korean Olympic champ banned for harassment to skate for China: reports

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

As coronavirus infections surge globally, organisers have said the Games may have to be held behind closed doors or with fewer fans.

But International Paralympic Committee president Parsons told AFP that would be a price worth paying.

"The Paralympic Games are a platform to change the world," he said in an interview, just over 200 days before the opening ceremony on August 24.

"We do understand that the Games will not be the same without spectators, but the impact of the Games is very strong outside the host city and the host nation."

"The impact that the Paralympics have is not only in the two-point-something million people that attend the Games," he added. "We're talking about the four billion people around the world watching the Paralympic Games."

With less than six months to go until Tokyo 2020, there are growing questions about whether the event can be held safely.

But Parsons said he is "very positive" about the Games happening this year, and insisted there is "no scenario" where the Olympics will happen without the Paralympics.

He said everyone involved in organising the Games is "unanimous in the fact that this is not something that is going to happen, where we have the Olympics and not the Paralympics".

"We will have both. There is no scenario where the Olympics will go ahead and the Paralympics will not go ahead," he said.

<h2>- 'We need to protect people' -</h2>

Parsons acknowledged however that qualifying tournaments could be affected, and that some athletes may be left "unhappy".

Only 57 percent of athletes have secured their places in Tokyo so far, with qualification events set to resume in March at the earliest.

"We may have more people unhappy than in previous times," he said. "But again, there's not much we can do to change that. We need to protect people.

"We will not make people compete to get their qualification slot for Tokyo if this is going to put them at risk."

As vaccines roll out around the world, Parsons said they would not be required for participation in the Games, as is the case for Olympic athletes.

But he encouraged athletes to get the jab as "an extra layer of protection".

He said the IPC is working with the International Olympic Committee to make vaccines available to athletes, but warned there are "many issues" in reaching a fair solution.

"Anything that we do in that regard we need to do for all of our members, all of our athletes," he said.

"It can't be something that we do for X country or Z country. That's the challenge -- we need to be absolutely fair with all the different nations."

Some Paralympians may have increased vulnerability, but Parsons said the aim was "to give the best protection we can give to every single athlete" regardless of specific risk factors.

Organisers have already drafted extensive virus countermeasures, and Parsons said he believes the Games can be held safely, pointing to sports events that have been staged around the world during the pandemic.

Athletes are determined to take part, regardless of how many people are in the stands, he added.

"We want them to have the opportunity to compete,"&nbsp;he said.

"Yes, we would be losing some part of the experience, but in balancing things here, we are far more positive about having the Games -- even if it's without spectators or only Japanese -- than not having the Games at all."

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators.

Paralympics chief Andrew Parsons is confident the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games will go ahead this year, and will be "a platform to change to world" -- with or without spectators. As coronavirus infections surge globally, organisers have said the Games may have to be held behind closed doors or with fewer fans. But International Paralympic Committee president Parsons told AFP that would be a price worth paying. "The Paralympic Games are a platform to change the world," he said in an interview, just over 200 days before the opening ceremony on August 24. "We do understand that the Games will not be the same without spectators, but the impact of the Games is very strong outside the host city and the host nation." "The impact that the Paralympics have is not only in the two-point-something million people that attend the Games," he added. "We're talking about the four billion people around the world watching the Paralympic Games." With less than six months to go until Tokyo 2020, there are growing questions about whether the event can be held safely. But Parsons said he is "very positive" about the Games happening this year, and insisted there is "no scenario" where the Olympics will happen without the Paralympics. He said everyone involved in organising the Games is "unanimous in the fact that this is not something that is going to happen, where we have the Olympics and not the Paralympics". "We will have both. There is no scenario where the Olympics will go ahead and the Paralympics will not go ahead," he said. - 'We need to protect people' - Parsons acknowledged however that qualifying tournaments could be affected, and that some athletes may be left "unhappy". Only 57 percent of athletes have secured their places in Tokyo so far, with qualification events set to resume in March at the earliest. "We may have more people unhappy than in previous times," he said. "But again, there's not much we can do to change that. We need to protect people. "We will not make people compete to get their qualification slot for Tokyo if this is going to put them at risk." As vaccines roll out around the world, Parsons said they would not be required for participation in the Games, as is the case for Olympic athletes. But he encouraged athletes to get the jab as "an extra layer of protection". He said the IPC is working with the International Olympic Committee to make vaccines available to athletes, but warned there are "many issues" in reaching a fair solution. "Anything that we do in that regard we need to do for all of our members, all of our athletes," he said. "It can't be something that we do for X country or Z country. That's the challenge -- we need to be absolutely fair with all the different nations." Some Paralympians may have increased vulnerability, but Parsons said the aim was "to give the best protection we can give to every single athlete" regardless of specific risk factors. Organisers have already drafted extensive virus countermeasures, and Parsons said he believes the Games can be held safely, pointing to sports events that have been staged around the world during the pandemic. Athletes are determined to take part, regardless of how many people are in the stands, he added. "We want them to have the opportunity to compete," he said. "Yes, we would be losing some part of the experience, but in balancing things here, we are far more positive about having the Games -- even if it's without spectators or only Japanese -- than not having the Games at all."

Fan-free Tokyo Paralympics can still have major impact, says IPC chief

Tokyo Olympics organisers insisted Friday that the coronavirus-postponed Games will still go ahead despite Japan declaring a state of emergency less than 200 days before the opening ceremony.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday announced the month-long measure covering the greater Tokyo area, taking effect from Friday, as the country battles a surge in infections.

Tokyo 2020 chiefs have already said that another postponement of the Games -- set to begin on July 23 -- is out of the question.

And they insisted Friday that the emergency would not derail plans.

"This declaration of emergency offers an opportunity to get the Covid-19 situation under control and for Tokyo 2020&nbsp;to plan for a safe and secure Games this summer, and we will proceed with the necessary preparations accordingly," organisers said in a statement.

Suga said Thursday that Japan is committed to holding a "safe and secure" Olympics, and that he believes public mood will change when the country begins vaccinations, currently scheduled for late next month.

International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound told the BBC he could not "be certain" the Games will go ahead, because "the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus".

Tokyo Olympics organisers insisted Friday that the coronavirus-postponed Games will still go ahead despite Japan declaring a state of emergency less than 200 days before the opening ceremony.

Tokyo Olympics organisers insisted Friday that the coronavirus-postponed Games will still go ahead despite Japan declaring a state of emergency less than 200 days before the opening ceremony. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday announced the month-long measure covering the greater Tokyo area, taking effect from Friday, as the country battles a surge in infections. Tokyo 2020 chiefs have already said that another postponement of the Games -- set to begin on July 23 -- is out of the question. And they insisted Friday that the emergency would not derail plans. "This declaration of emergency offers an opportunity to get the Covid-19 situation under control and for Tokyo 2020 to plan for a safe and secure Games this summer, and we will proceed with the necessary preparations accordingly," organisers said in a statement. Suga said Thursday that Japan is committed to holding a "safe and secure" Olympics, and that he believes public mood will change when the country begins vaccinations, currently scheduled for late next month. International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound told the BBC he could not "be certain" the Games will go ahead, because "the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus".

Tokyo Olympics 'safe and secure' despite virus emergency: organisers

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts&nbsp;over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I can’t be certain because the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus,”&nbsp;Pound told the BBC.&nbsp;

Pound’s statement comes after the IOC said it has “full confidence” in the Tokyo Olympic&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;and remains committed to the quadrennial event going ahead as per the revised scheduled in July despite Tokyo going under a state of emergency on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Japanese capital is witnessing the third wave of infections in recent weeks which prompted prime minister Yoshihide Suga to declare a month-long state of emergency in Tokyo and three&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;

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Pound further said that all Olympic-bound athletes should be vaccinated as a priority. In November 2020, IOC President Thomas Bach had urged athletes to get vaccinated before the Games but said it would not be mandatory for the event.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the IOC responded to the state of emergency announced in Tokyo as they said they are fully committed and concentrated on delivering a safe and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 in the summer.&nbsp;

“The IOC has full confidence in the Japanese authorities and the measures they are taking,” it said in a statement released to Kyodo News.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Together with our Japanese partners, we continue to be fully concentrated and committed to the safe and successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-safe-and-secure-despite-virus-emergency-organisers-355315" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 'safe and secure' despite virus emergency: organisers</a>

Tokyo announced a record 2,447 new COVID-19 cases before the state of emergency was declared by the Japanese&nbsp;PM.&nbsp;

The Tokyo Olympics, which was postponed by one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are scheduled to commence on July 23 with Paralympics set to open on August 24.&nbsp;

Earlier, in a New Year video message, Bach had called Tokyo&nbsp;“still the best prepared Olympic city ever” and thanked Japan for its commitment and determination to organize the games “in a safe and secure way for all the participants” that will fit a post-coronavirus world.&nbsp;

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19.

Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has raised doubts over the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics as the said he “can’t be certain” about the Games due to the continued spread of the dreaded COVID-19. “I can’t be certain because the ongoing elephant in the room would be the surges in the virus,” Pound told the BBC. Pound’s statement comes after the IOC said it has “full confidence” in the Tokyo Olympic organisers and remains committed to the quadrennial event going ahead as per the revised scheduled in July despite Tokyo going under a state of emergency on Thursday. The Japanese capital is witnessing the third wave of infections in recent weeks which prompted prime minister Yoshihide Suga to declare a month-long state of emergency in Tokyo and three neighbouring areas. ALSO READ: Olympics: Japan postpones torch exhibitions over COVID-19 fears Pound further said that all Olympic-bound athletes should be vaccinated as a priority. In November 2020, IOC President Thomas Bach had urged athletes to get vaccinated before the Games but said it would not be mandatory for the event. On Thursday, the IOC responded to the state of emergency announced in Tokyo as they said they are fully committed and concentrated on delivering a safe and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 in the summer. “The IOC has full confidence in the Japanese authorities and the measures they are taking,” it said in a statement released to Kyodo News. “Together with our Japanese partners, we continue to be fully concentrated and committed to the safe and successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer.” ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 'safe and secure' despite virus emergency: organisers Tokyo announced a record 2,447 new COVID-19 cases before the state of emergency was declared by the Japanese PM. The Tokyo Olympics, which was postponed by one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are scheduled to commence on July 23 with Paralympics set to open on August 24. Earlier, in a New Year video message, Bach had called Tokyo “still the best prepared Olympic city ever” and thanked Japan for its commitment and determination to organize the games “in a safe and secure way for all the participants” that will fit a post-coronavirus world.

IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge

Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced on Thursday that upcoming exhibitions of the Tokyo Olympics torch around the Japanese capital have been postponed “to reduce the flow of people and the further spread of COVID-19.”

The torch had been on display in certain municipalities at the end of last year and the exhibitions were due to restart on Thursday but as a state of emergency for Tokyo and three neighbouring prefectures will begin on Friday, the government chose to postpone all displays until the end of the month.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced on Thursday that upcoming exhibitions of the Tokyo Olympics torch around the Japanese capital have been postponed “to reduce the flow of people and the further spread of COVID-19.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced on Thursday that upcoming exhibitions of the Tokyo Olympics torch around the Japanese capital have been postponed “to reduce the flow of people and the further spread of COVID-19.” The torch had been on display in certain municipalities at the end of last year and the exhibitions were due to restart on Thursday but as a state of emergency for Tokyo and three neighbouring prefectures will begin on Friday, the government chose to postpone all displays until the end of the month.

Olympics: Japan postpones torch exhibitions over COVID-19 fears

The organisers of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Thursday said that they have reached “basic agreement” with all domestic sponsors to extend contracts by a year while securing the additional funds needed for the virus-postponed Games.

Keeping all 68 domestic sponsors intact for another year is crucial for Tokyo Olympics organisers as the cost of Games spiked because of the unprecedented delay and the need for COVID-19 countermeasures.

In a statement, Tokyo 2020 said the "basic agreement" meant they were now "proceeding with the conclusion of contracts with all partners."

However, the organisers refused to drawn on just when the final details would be locked in without providing details on how much individual contract extensions were worth.

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Overall, the organisers said the extensions were likely to provide another 22 billion yen ($212 million). 
Domestic sponsors are investing more money at the Tokyo Olympics than any previous Games.

Tokyo 2020 President Yoshiro Mori said sponsors had "spoken about the difficult situation that each of them are facing in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unprecedented economic crisis."

"At the same time, we received powerful messages from all partner companies... (saying) we definitely want you to hold the Games and we will support Tokyo 2020 as much as possible," he told reporters. 
Organisers insist that the Games can go ahead as scheduled, on July 23, 2021. However, new infections in Japan and abroad with slow roll-out of vaccines have some unconvinced that the Games can or should process.

Domestic support for the Tokyo Olympics has been limited with a poll hinting that majority support postponement or cancellation.&nbsp;

Organisers said this week the Games will now cost at least 1.64 trillion yen ($15.9 billion), almost $3 billion more than their revised budget produced last year.

The amount could make Tokyo 2020 the most expensive Summer Games in history with some suggesting the cost could balloon even higher.&nbsp;

Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto defended the price tag earlier this week, calling it a "positive investment."

"Whether you see this budget as expensive or not depends on how you look at it," he told reporters.

The organisers of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Thursday said that they have reached “basic agreement” with all domestic sponsors to extend contracts by a year while securing the additional funds needed for the virus-postponed Games.

The organisers of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Thursday said that they have reached “basic agreement” with all domestic sponsors to extend contracts by a year while securing the additional funds needed for the virus-postponed Games. Keeping all 68 domestic sponsors intact for another year is crucial for Tokyo Olympics organisers as the cost of Games spiked because of the unprecedented delay and the need for COVID-19 countermeasures. In a statement, Tokyo 2020 said the "basic agreement" meant they were now "proceeding with the conclusion of contracts with all partners." However, the organisers refused to drawn on just when the final details would be locked in without providing details on how much individual contract extensions were worth. ALSO READ: Swiss court overturns doping ban on Chinese swimmer Sun Yang Overall, the organisers said the extensions were likely to provide another 22 billion yen ($212 million). Domestic sponsors are investing more money at the Tokyo Olympics than any previous Games. Tokyo 2020 President Yoshiro Mori said sponsors had "spoken about the difficult situation that each of them are facing in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unprecedented economic crisis." "At the same time, we received powerful messages from all partner companies... (saying) we definitely want you to hold the Games and we will support Tokyo 2020 as much as possible," he told reporters. Organisers insist that the Games can go ahead as scheduled, on July 23, 2021. However, new infections in Japan and abroad with slow roll-out of vaccines have some unconvinced that the Games can or should process. Domestic support for the Tokyo Olympics has been limited with a poll hinting that majority support postponement or cancellation. Organisers said this week the Games will now cost at least 1.64 trillion yen ($15.9 billion), almost $3 billion more than their revised budget produced last year. The amount could make Tokyo 2020 the most expensive Summer Games in history with some suggesting the cost could balloon even higher. Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto defended the price tag earlier this week, calling it a "positive investment." "Whether you see this budget as expensive or not depends on how you look at it," he told reporters.

Postponed Tokyo Olympics sponsors to extend contracts, confirm organisers

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday.

Bach succeeded outgoing president Jacques Rogge in 2013 after prevailing over five other candidates in an election in Buenos Aires.

Presidents are limited to two terms in office under the rules of the Olympic body. The length of the first presidential term is eight years with re-election securing another four years in office.

“The members of the IOC were informed today... that President Thomas Bach will be the only candidate for the presidential election, which will be held during the 137th IOC Session in Athens in March 2021,” it said in a statement.

Bach is a German lawyer who won a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

An IOC member since 1991, he introduced a string of reforms in 2014 designed to reduce the cost and size of the Olympics, as potential host cities were scared away by the financial implications.

He also had to deal with the fallout of the 2014 Sochi Olympics doping scandal that led to the Olympic ban of Russia in 2018, and more recently had to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He has also ruled the IOC virtually unopposed, with the vast majority of decisions receiving unanimous support from the committee members, who currently number just over 100.

More than half of them became members during Bach’s presidency.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach is set to remain in office until 2025 as he will run unopposed next year for a second term, the IOC said on Tuesday. Bach succeeded outgoing president Jacques Rogge in 2013 after prevailing over five other candidates in an election in Buenos Aires. Presidents are limited to two terms in office under the rules of the Olympic body. The length of the first presidential term is eight years with re-election securing another four years in office. “The members of the IOC were informed today... that President Thomas Bach will be the only candidate for the presidential election, which will be held during the 137th IOC Session in Athens in March 2021,” it said in a statement. Bach is a German lawyer who won a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. An IOC member since 1991, he introduced a string of reforms in 2014 designed to reduce the cost and size of the Olympics, as potential host cities were scared away by the financial implications. He also had to deal with the fallout of the 2014 Sochi Olympics doping scandal that led to the Olympic ban of Russia in 2018, and more recently had to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also ruled the IOC virtually unopposed, with the vast majority of decisions receiving unanimous support from the committee members, who currently number just over 100. More than half of them became members during Bach’s presidency.

IOC President Bach runs unopposed to stay on until 2025

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