International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese.&nbsp;

Bach visited the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday before concluding his two-day Tokyo visit to the National Stadium.&nbsp;

“We will encourage athletes that whenever possible they have the vaccination because it is better for their health, and it is also a demonstration of solidarity with their fellow athletes and also the Japanese people,” said the German.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/honour-to-have-cristiano-ronaldo-break-my-record-in-international-football-ali-daei-343739" hreflang="en">Honour to have Cristiano Ronaldo break my record in international football: Ali Daei</a>

Bach, who was in his first trip to Japan since the decision to postpone the Tokyo Games in March, has spoken about the major impact a vaccine could have on the prospects of Tokyo hosting the Olympics in 2021.

More than 11,000 athletes are expected to land in Tokyo for the Games, which are scheduled to commence from July 23 with around thousands expected for the subsequent Paralympics.

However, when asked whether athletes would queue up to get the potential vaccine before the Tokyo Olympics, Bach sounded confident that this wouldn’t be the case.&nbsp;

“We made it clear from the very beginning that the first priorities are for the nurses, medical doctors and everybody who keeps our society alive, despite the coronavirus crisis,” Bach told reporters at the National Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iocs-bach-very-confident-tokyo-olympics-will-have-fans-343411" hreflang="en">IOC's Bach 'very confident' Tokyo Olympics will have fans</a>

“These are the people who deserve to be the first ones to be vaccinated.”

Tokyo 2020 organisers are conducting a project review meeting this week while hoping on deciding on a range of COVID-19 measures, including whether the mega event will allow fans in venues in 2021.

A small group of anti-Olympics protesters gathered outside the stadium during Bach’s visit while chanting slogans as he walked alone down the track and looked up at the glaring empty seats around him.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach on Tuesday said that athletes won’t be forced to get COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but added that they should have it as a “demonstration of solidarity” with the Japanese. Bach visited the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday before concluding his two-day Tokyo visit to the National Stadium. “We will encourage athletes that whenever possible they have the vaccination because it is better for their health, and it is also a demonstration of solidarity with their fellow athletes and also the Japanese people,” said the German. ALSO READ: Honour to have Cristiano Ronaldo break my record in international football: Ali Daei Bach, who was in his first trip to Japan since the decision to postpone the Tokyo Games in March, has spoken about the major impact a vaccine could have on the prospects of Tokyo hosting the Olympics in 2021. More than 11,000 athletes are expected to land in Tokyo for the Games, which are scheduled to commence from July 23 with around thousands expected for the subsequent Paralympics. However, when asked whether athletes would queue up to get the potential vaccine before the Tokyo Olympics, Bach sounded confident that this wouldn’t be the case. “We made it clear from the very beginning that the first priorities are for the nurses, medical doctors and everybody who keeps our society alive, despite the coronavirus crisis,” Bach told reporters at the National Stadium. ALSO READ: IOC's Bach 'very confident' Tokyo Olympics will have fans “These are the people who deserve to be the first ones to be vaccinated.” Tokyo 2020 organisers are conducting a project review meeting this week while hoping on deciding on a range of COVID-19 measures, including whether the mega event will allow fans in venues in 2021. A small group of anti-Olympics protesters gathered outside the stadium during Bach’s visit while chanting slogans as he walked alone down the track and looked up at the glaring empty seats around him.

Athletes won't be forced to get COVID-19 vaccine ahead of Tokyo Olympics: Thomas Bach

Athletes arriving in Tokyo for next year’s Olympic Games, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, will be exempt from the 14-day isolation period Japan has imposed on anyone arriving from overseas to help stop the virus spreading.

Olympic organisers said on Thursday details still need to be worked out, but measures for athletes are likely to include coronavirus testing within 72 hours before arriving in Japan. But they warned decisions on spectators from overseas have yet to be made, saying a 14-day quarantine was “impossible”.

“Athletes, coaches and Games officials that are eligible for the Tokyo Games will be allowed to enter the country, provided significant measures are made before they get to Japan,” Tokyo 2020 Chief Executive Officer Toshiro Muto told a news conference.

Muto was speaking after a meeting between officials from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the national government and Tokyo 2020 organisers on infection prevention procedures during the Games.

He said a decision on foreign spectators would be made next year, depending on pandemic developments.

“By next spring, we will be coming up with a plan for spectators, including non-Japanese spectators,” he said. “It is impossible to set a 14-day quarantine period for foreign spectators, so tests before and upon arrival are needed.”

Japan has held several recent test events, including a four-nation gymnastics meet last weekend, in which spectators have been admitted, but these were limited to residents of Japan.

International Olympic Committee head Thomas Bach is due in Japan for a three-day visit next week, at which Muto said he expected details of coronavirus counter-measures would be ironed out.

Reporting by Jack Tarrant; Writing by Sakura Murakami and Elaine L

Athletes arriving in Tokyo for next year’s Olympic Games, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, will be exempt from the 14-day isolation period Japan has imposed on anyone arriving from overseas to help stop the virus spreading.

Athletes arriving in Tokyo for next year’s Olympic Games, postponed from 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, will be exempt from the 14-day isolation period Japan has imposed on anyone arriving from overseas to help stop the virus spreading. Olympic organisers said on Thursday details still need to be worked out, but measures for athletes are likely to include coronavirus testing within 72 hours before arriving in Japan. But they warned decisions on spectators from overseas have yet to be made, saying a 14-day quarantine was “impossible”. “Athletes, coaches and Games officials that are eligible for the Tokyo Games will be allowed to enter the country, provided significant measures are made before they get to Japan,” Tokyo 2020 Chief Executive Officer Toshiro Muto told a news conference. Muto was speaking after a meeting between officials from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the national government and Tokyo 2020 organisers on infection prevention procedures during the Games. He said a decision on foreign spectators would be made next year, depending on pandemic developments. “By next spring, we will be coming up with a plan for spectators, including non-Japanese spectators,” he said. “It is impossible to set a 14-day quarantine period for foreign spectators, so tests before and upon arrival are needed.” Japan has held several recent test events, including a four-nation gymnastics meet last weekend, in which spectators have been admitted, but these were limited to residents of Japan. International Olympic Committee head Thomas Bach is due in Japan for a three-day visit next week, at which Muto said he expected details of coronavirus counter-measures would be ironed out. Reporting by Jack Tarrant; Writing by Sakura Murakami and Elaine L

Tokyo Olympics athletes won't have to isolate for 14 days on arrival - organisers

World champion sprinter Christian Coleman is set to miss next year's Tokyo Olympics after being banned from athletics for two years for anti-doping violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on Tuesday.

The American, who won the men's 100 metres at last year's World Championships in Doha, was provisionally suspended for three 'whereabouts failures' in June.

World Athletics' Disciplinary Tribunal upheld the charge and banned Coleman for two years, backdated to 14 May, 2020.

The 24-year-old has 30 days to appeal against the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

He is set to miss next year's Olympic Games in Japan, where he would have been among the favourites to win 100m gold.

Coleman, who is also the 60m world record holder, only ran in the 4x100m relay heats in his first Olympic appearance in Rio de Janeiro four years ago.

The AIU charged Coleman for missed tests in January and December 2019, as well as for a "filing failure" last April.

To prove an anti-doping violation, an athlete has to have committed three whereabouts failures within 12 months.

Coleman previously escaped suspension on a technicality ahead of last September's World Championships.

Those three whereabouts failures were recorded on June 6, 2018, January 16, 2019 and April 26, 2019.

However, Coleman had successfully argued that the first missed case should have been backdated to the first day of the quarter -- April 1, 2018 -- meaning the three failures fell just outside the required 12-month period.

But now the missed test on December 9, 2019, added to the two failures in January and April, have seen Coleman suspended.

"I think the attempt on December 9th was a purposeful attempt to get me to miss a test," Coleman said after he was charged in June.

"Don't tell me I 'missed' a test if you sneak up on my door &nbsp;-- parked outside the gate and walked through... there's no record of anyone coming to my place -- without my knowledge."

Two-year suspensions can be reduced to one year if there are mitigating circumstances, but the tribunal rejected any chance of a reduction.

"We regret to say that we do not think there is any mitigation which can fairly be relied upon to reduce the sanction from the two-year period," the tribunal said in its findings.

"Unfortunately, we see this case as involving behaviour by the athlete as very careless at best and reckless at worst."

Coleman's suspension comes a week after doping charges brought against Bahrain's women's 400m world champion Salwa Eid Naser were dismissed.

<h2>- 'More than ready' -</h2>

In June, Coleman said testers had visited when he was out shopping for Christmas presents nearby, verifiable by bank statements and receipts.

"I was more than ready and available for testing and if I had received a phone call I could've taken the drug test and carried on with my night," he said.

"I was only made aware of this attempted drug test the next day on December 10th, 2019 by the AIU when I got this failed attempt report out of nowhere."

The report from the doping control officer posted by Coleman said the tester had arrived at his apartment and had failed to get a response after "multiple, loud knocks were made every 10 minutes" for an hour.

A doorbell next to Coleman's door was pressed but no ring could be heard. No attempt to reach Coleman by phone was made, according to the document.

"I've been contacted by phone literally every other time I've been tested," Coleman said. "Literally. (I don't know) why this time was different. He even said he couldn't hear the doorbell so why wouldn't you call me?"&nbsp;

Coleman last competed at the US Indoor Championships in February, running a world-leading 6.37 seconds in the 60m, just three hundredths of a second slower than his world record.

He also posted the best 100m time last year -- the 9.76sec he ran to win the world title.

World champion sprinter Christian Coleman is set to miss next year's Tokyo Olympics after being banned from athletics for two years for anti-doping violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on Tuesday.

World champion sprinter Christian Coleman is set to miss next year's Tokyo Olympics after being banned from athletics for two years for anti-doping violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on Tuesday. The American, who won the men's 100 metres at last year's World Championships in Doha, was provisionally suspended for three 'whereabouts failures' in June. World Athletics' Disciplinary Tribunal upheld the charge and banned Coleman for two years, backdated to 14 May, 2020. The 24-year-old has 30 days to appeal against the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. He is set to miss next year's Olympic Games in Japan, where he would have been among the favourites to win 100m gold. Coleman, who is also the 60m world record holder, only ran in the 4x100m relay heats in his first Olympic appearance in Rio de Janeiro four years ago. The AIU charged Coleman for missed tests in January and December 2019, as well as for a "filing failure" last April. To prove an anti-doping violation, an athlete has to have committed three whereabouts failures within 12 months. Coleman previously escaped suspension on a technicality ahead of last September's World Championships. Those three whereabouts failures were recorded on June 6, 2018, January 16, 2019 and April 26, 2019. However, Coleman had successfully argued that the first missed case should have been backdated to the first day of the quarter -- April 1, 2018 -- meaning the three failures fell just outside the required 12-month period. But now the missed test on December 9, 2019, added to the two failures in January and April, have seen Coleman suspended. "I think the attempt on December 9th was a purposeful attempt to get me to miss a test," Coleman said after he was charged in June. "Don't tell me I 'missed' a test if you sneak up on my door -- parked outside the gate and walked through... there's no record of anyone coming to my place -- without my knowledge." Two-year suspensions can be reduced to one year if there are mitigating circumstances, but the tribunal rejected any chance of a reduction. "We regret to say that we do not think there is any mitigation which can fairly be relied upon to reduce the sanction from the two-year period," the tribunal said in its findings. "Unfortunately, we see this case as involving behaviour by the athlete as very careless at best and reckless at worst." Coleman's suspension comes a week after doping charges brought against Bahrain's women's 400m world champion Salwa Eid Naser were dismissed. - 'More than ready' - In June, Coleman said testers had visited when he was out shopping for Christmas presents nearby, verifiable by bank statements and receipts. "I was more than ready and available for testing and if I had received a phone call I could've taken the drug test and carried on with my night," he said. "I was only made aware of this attempted drug test the next day on December 10th, 2019 by the AIU when I got this failed attempt report out of nowhere." The report from the doping control officer posted by Coleman said the tester had arrived at his apartment and had failed to get a response after "multiple, loud knocks were made every 10 minutes" for an hour. A doorbell next to Coleman's door was pressed but no ring could be heard. No attempt to reach Coleman by phone was made, according to the document. "I've been contacted by phone literally every other time I've been tested," Coleman said. "Literally. (I don't know) why this time was different. He even said he couldn't hear the doorbell so why wouldn't you call me?" Coleman last competed at the US Indoor Championships in February, running a world-leading 6.37 seconds in the 60m, just three hundredths of a second slower than his world record. He also posted the best 100m time last year -- the 9.76sec he ran to win the world title.

'Careless' Coleman set to miss Olympics after being handed two-year ban

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively. It was the first time in the history of Olympics that India won three medals - a historic event for the entire nation.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh recalled the historic 2008 Beijing Games while explaining how it changed their lives and sporting scenario in the country.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af3d22db-014d-4823-8db3-e7e2f694769d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del222578.jpg" />

Sushil remains the only Indian sportsperson to have won two Olympic medals. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna-awardee remembered how his coach taugh him to be humble while adding that those three medals in Beijing Olympics changed the outlook of Indian sport.

“I consider it an honour to have won medals for India. My coach Satpal taught me to be humble and to focus on my sport. No one believed we could win Olympic medals in 2008 but those 3 medals changed the outlook of Indian sport. Today every young sportsperson wants to win a gold at the Olympics,” Sushil told WION.&nbsp;

Whereas Vijender said that both Abhinav Bindra and Sushil deserve Bharat Ratna for what they have done for the country and added that it would be a motivating aspect for budding sportspersons if the duo is awarded with India’s highest civilian honour.

“Abhinav bindra and Sushil deserve the Bharat Ratna for the achievements. I do not want to go into the past and which sportsperson deserves it more but it would be very motivating for budding sportspersons if these two are awarded India’s highest civilian honour. They are fully deserving of this respect,” Vijender told WION.

<img alt="Sushil Kumar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1e0e12f-fffb-42c1-98fd-0d6c8d19799c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV407012_0.jpg" />

In an interesting insight, Sushil revealed how Leander Paes’ bronze medal at 1996 Atlanta Olympics inspired him to become an Olympic medallist. Whereas for Vijender, it was Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore’s silver at Athens Olympics, which motivated him to be an Olympic medallist.

Our coach always told Yogeshwar Dutt and me that we have to win Olympic medals. But we had no idea what the Olympics meant or what an Olympic medal signified. Leander paes set an example in 1996 and that changed our complete focus as sportspersons. And now a new generation wants to emulate our success after seeing us on the medal podium,” recalled Sushil.

“I was 18-year-old when I qualified for Athens and I had to shave to look mature. I was blown over by the spectacle of the Olympics and had enjoyed myself thoroughly taking in the sights and sounds of the city. I saw how Rathore was celebrated after his medal and that told me that I had to win a medal to make a name. That was when I devoted myself to the target of winning an Olympic medal,” Vijender revealed.

The life of an Olympic medallist changes overnight and the same happened to Vijender and Sushil as they returned home amid a rousing reception and countless felicitation ceremonies.&nbsp;

“God has been kind. We both come from families that were not financially well-off and at times i am grateful to god for all that has come our way. The Olympic medal changed our lives and today young wrestlers who come from similar backgrounds look at us and believe that they too can emulate our success,” said Sushil.

“I have led life on my own terms. I won the Olympic medal due to my hard work and talent. I did not owe it to anyone and did what my heart told me,” said an ever-confident Vijender.

When asked how Indian sport changed between the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Vijender said the phase brought a lot more limelight to Olympic athletes and Indian sport never looked back after that.

“A lot changed! There was space for Olympic athletes on the back pages that was usually reserved for cricket. The media interest grew and that sparked interest in a new generation of sport persons. Indian sport has not looked back ever since,” said Vijender.&nbsp;

<img alt="Vijender Singh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b0b2ea9-13cb-486f-847e-b4031c82181d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/jpg.jpg" />

The Rio Olympics witnessed India won just two medals with three Indians missing the podium narrowly at fourth. When asked whether the growth is a part of the legacy of Olympic medallists, Sushil said Olympic sports changed in India changed after 2008 and the youngsters blazing into the scene show how the gap has narrowed down completely.&nbsp;

“Olympic sports has changed in India after 2008. We are contending in sports that earlier we had no history in. Dipa Karmakar's 4th place finish in gymnastics at Rio was a bolt from the blue but it showed that the gap has narrowed down completely. We have world-class infrastructure now and that produces a new generation of champions,” Sushil concluded. 
&nbsp;

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively.

Sporting scenario in India completely changed after the country’s unparalleled success in the Beijing Olympics. While Abhinav Bindra clinched India’s first individual gold medal in the Games, Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh bagged bronze in men’s freestyle wrestling and boxing events respectively. It was the first time in the history of Olympics that India won three medals - a historic event for the entire nation. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and Vijender Singh recalled the historic 2008 Beijing Games while explaining how it changed their lives and sporting scenario in the country. Sushil remains the only Indian sportsperson to have won two Olympic medals. The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna-awardee remembered how his coach taugh him to be humble while adding that those three medals in Beijing Olympics changed the outlook of Indian sport. “I consider it an honour to have won medals for India. My coach Satpal taught me to be humble and to focus on my sport. No one believed we could win Olympic medals in 2008 but those 3 medals changed the outlook of Indian sport. Today every young sportsperson wants to win a gold at the Olympics,” Sushil told WION. Whereas Vijender said that both Abhinav Bindra and Sushil deserve Bharat Ratna for what they have done for the country and added that it would be a motivating aspect for budding sportspersons if the duo is awarded with India’s highest civilian honour. “Abhinav bindra and Sushil deserve the Bharat Ratna for the achievements. I do not want to go into the past and which sportsperson deserves it more but it would be very motivating for budding sportspersons if these two are awarded India’s highest civilian honour. They are fully deserving of this respect,” Vijender told WION. In an interesting insight, Sushil revealed how Leander Paes’ bronze medal at 1996 Atlanta Olympics inspired him to become an Olympic medallist. Whereas for Vijender, it was Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore’s silver at Athens Olympics, which motivated him to be an Olympic medallist. Our coach always told Yogeshwar Dutt and me that we have to win Olympic medals. But we had no idea what the Olympics meant or what an Olympic medal signified. Leander paes set an example in 1996 and that changed our complete focus as sportspersons. And now a new generation wants to emulate our success after seeing us on the medal podium,” recalled Sushil. “I was 18-year-old when I qualified for Athens and I had to shave to look mature. I was blown over by the spectacle of the Olympics and had enjoyed myself thoroughly taking in the sights and sounds of the city. I saw how Rathore was celebrated after his medal and that told me that I had to win a medal to make a name. That was when I devoted myself to the target of winning an Olympic medal,” Vijender revealed. The life of an Olympic medallist changes overnight and the same happened to Vijender and Sushil as they returned home amid a rousing reception and countless felicitation ceremonies. “God has been kind. We both come from families that were not financially well-off and at times i am grateful to god for all that has come our way. The Olympic medal changed our lives and today young wrestlers who come from similar backgrounds look at us and believe that they too can emulate our success,” said Sushil. “I have led life on my own terms. I won the Olympic medal due to my hard work and talent. I did not owe it to anyone and did what my heart told me,” said an ever-confident Vijender. When asked how Indian sport changed between the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, Vijender said the phase brought a lot more limelight to Olympic athletes and Indian sport never looked back after that. “A lot changed! There was space for Olympic athletes on the back pages that was usually reserved for cricket. The media interest grew and that sparked interest in a new generation of sport persons. Indian sport has not looked back ever since,” said Vijender. The Rio Olympics witnessed India won just two medals with three Indians missing the podium narrowly at fourth. When asked whether the growth is a part of the legacy of Olympic medallists, Sushil said Olympic sports changed in India changed after 2008 and the youngsters blazing into the scene show how the gap has narrowed down completely. “Olympic sports has changed in India after 2008. We are contending in sports that earlier we had no history in. Dipa Karmakar's 4th place finish in gymnastics at Rio was a bolt from the blue but it showed that the gap has narrowed down completely. We have world-class infrastructure now and that produces a new generation of champions,” Sushil concluded.

The heroes of Beijing 2008

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events.

India, Australia's Queensland state, the Chinese city of Shanghai and a potential joint bid between South and North Korea are also being touted for the 2032 summer games.

Under changes put forward in 2014, interested countries submit a request to join the non-committal "continuous dialogue", which Qatar confirmed to AFP it had done via a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne.

"Today's announcement marks the beginning of a meaningful dialogue with the IOC's Future Host Commission to explore our interest further and identify how the Olympic Games can support Qatar's long-term development goals," Qatar Olympic Committee president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani told AFP in a statement.

Qatar unsuccessfully bid to host the 2016 and 2020 games, having proposed to host the former in October without first clearing it with the IOC.&nbsp;

It won a waiver to propose hosting the 2020 games, a joint bid with Baku, Azerbaijan, between September 20 and October 20, but failed to make the shortlist.

The 2020 games, postponed to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, were awarded to Japan, which also experiences searing summer temperatures, leading officials to schedule events early in the morning when conditions are coolest.

"Qatar has earned the reputation of a world-class destination for major sporting events," added Sheikh Joaan, brother of Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

"It is this proven track-record and wealth of experience, along with our desire to use sport to promote peace and cultural exchange, that will form the basis of our discussions with the Commission."

Summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in the nation which abuts the Arabian desert. Heat and humidity were major issues during the road races at last year's World Athletics Championships held in Doha.&nbsp;

The event was shifted to late September and October over concerns about the gas-rich state's climate and marathons and race walks were held at midnight.&nbsp;

Even so, humidity hovered around 73 percent and the temperature was 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) for much of the women's marathon and images of the runners collapsing and gasping for air led to questions over Qatar's suitability to host outdoor events outside the cooler winter months.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Huge interest' -</h2>

Perhaps the most stinging off-track criticism of the 10-day World Athletics event was sparked by the spectacle of a near-empty stadium during the opening days, raising fears for World Cup attendances in 2022 and at other sporting events.

IAAF President Sebastian Coe said he was more worried about conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, where summer temperatures have pushed organisers to schedule events for the early morning.

Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup after a bid process that has been attacked by some European nations and media outlets as corrupt, although Doha insists it won fairly.&nbsp;

Discriminatory labour practices and human rights issues facing the migrant labourers building infrastructure for 2022 have been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism since Qatar won the bid in 2010.

"We in the International Olympic Committee are happy with the huge interest in the 2032 Summer Olympics, 12 years before the launch of the games. We are in a great position," IOC president Thomas Bach said in an interview with Qatar-based broadcaster BeIN on Friday.&nbsp;

"We made sure that our new approach to this kind of intentions works well. We launched a dialogue between the interested national Olympic committees and a special commission in the IOC. Naturally, we welcome Qatar to join this dialogue."

If Qatar were successful, it would be the first time the event had been held in the Middle East.

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events.

Qatar will seek to host the 2032 Olympic Games, it said on Monday, joining a crowded field and raising questions about scorching summer temperatures and underwhelming attendances at past events. India, Australia's Queensland state, the Chinese city of Shanghai and a potential joint bid between South and North Korea are also being touted for the 2032 summer games. Under changes put forward in 2014, interested countries submit a request to join the non-committal "continuous dialogue", which Qatar confirmed to AFP it had done via a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne. "Today's announcement marks the beginning of a meaningful dialogue with the IOC's Future Host Commission to explore our interest further and identify how the Olympic Games can support Qatar's long-term development goals," Qatar Olympic Committee president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani told AFP in a statement. Qatar unsuccessfully bid to host the 2016 and 2020 games, having proposed to host the former in October without first clearing it with the IOC. It won a waiver to propose hosting the 2020 games, a joint bid with Baku, Azerbaijan, between September 20 and October 20, but failed to make the shortlist. The 2020 games, postponed to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, were awarded to Japan, which also experiences searing summer temperatures, leading officials to schedule events early in the morning when conditions are coolest. "Qatar has earned the reputation of a world-class destination for major sporting events," added Sheikh Joaan, brother of Qatar's ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. "It is this proven track-record and wealth of experience, along with our desire to use sport to promote peace and cultural exchange, that will form the basis of our discussions with the Commission." Summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in the nation which abuts the Arabian desert. Heat and humidity were major issues during the road races at last year's World Athletics Championships held in Doha. The event was shifted to late September and October over concerns about the gas-rich state's climate and marathons and race walks were held at midnight. Even so, humidity hovered around 73 percent and the temperature was 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) for much of the women's marathon and images of the runners collapsing and gasping for air led to questions over Qatar's suitability to host outdoor events outside the cooler winter months. - 'Huge interest' - Perhaps the most stinging off-track criticism of the 10-day World Athletics event was sparked by the spectacle of a near-empty stadium during the opening days, raising fears for World Cup attendances in 2022 and at other sporting events. IAAF President Sebastian Coe said he was more worried about conditions at the Tokyo Olympics, where summer temperatures have pushed organisers to schedule events for the early morning. Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup after a bid process that has been attacked by some European nations and media outlets as corrupt, although Doha insists it won fairly. Discriminatory labour practices and human rights issues facing the migrant labourers building infrastructure for 2022 have been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism since Qatar won the bid in 2010. "We in the International Olympic Committee are happy with the huge interest in the 2032 Summer Olympics, 12 years before the launch of the games. We are in a great position," IOC president Thomas Bach said in an interview with Qatar-based broadcaster BeIN on Friday. "We made sure that our new approach to this kind of intentions works well. We launched a dialogue between the interested national Olympic committees and a special commission in the IOC. Naturally, we welcome Qatar to join this dialogue." If Qatar were successful, it would be the first time the event had been held in the Middle East.

Qatar confirms plan to bid for 2032 Olympics

It was supposed to be the time when Tokyo Olympics 2020 would be going in full flow. However, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the Games back by a year in what was a historic call by the organisers. With still around a year to go for the quadrennial events, Tokyo Olympics venues, that would have been decked up with world’s top athletes and fans from all around the world, are now being opened up for use by sporting federations and public.&nbsp;

The newly built Canoe Slalom Centre opened its gate on Monday for athletes to train and practice while the renovated Tatsumi Swimming Centre, which is also set to host water polo, will be available for use from mid-August.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government said that it plans to also open the gates of other Olympic venues in the coming monhts, although that could change depending on the COVID-19 situation.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-must-be-simple-and-safe-says-iocs-coates-315770" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 must be simple and safe, says IOC's Coates</a>

The 2020 Games were due to begin last Friday but were deferred to 2021 given the current situation surrounding the dreaded virus and international travel and quarantine restrictions in some of the biggest countries.

The financial ramification to postpone the Tokyo Olympics have been immense with the bill for the quadrennial event coming up to more than $12.6 billion before the historic call was taken to delay the tournament.

The International Olympic Committee has estimated the postponement will cost around $800 million whereas Japan has yet to provide an estimate as to how much the deferment will cost the country.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-holds-subdued-celebrations-to-mark-one-year-until-postponed-tokyo-2020-olympics-315434" hreflang="en">Japan holds subdued celebrations to mark one year until postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics</a>

There has been mixed reactions from the sporting fraternity on Tokyo Olympics with many still being less optimistic about conducting the Games if a vaccine is not available by next year whereas others have been of the view that spectator-less Olympics will be too hard on the country and the organisers.

It was supposed to be the time when Tokyo Olympics 2020 would be going in full flow. However, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the Games back by a year in what was a historic call by the organisers.

It was supposed to be the time when Tokyo Olympics 2020 would be going in full flow. However, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the Games back by a year in what was a historic call by the organisers. With still around a year to go for the quadrennial events, Tokyo Olympics venues, that would have been decked up with world’s top athletes and fans from all around the world, are now being opened up for use by sporting federations and public. The newly built Canoe Slalom Centre opened its gate on Monday for athletes to train and practice while the renovated Tatsumi Swimming Centre, which is also set to host water polo, will be available for use from mid-August. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government said that it plans to also open the gates of other Olympic venues in the coming monhts, although that could change depending on the COVID-19 situation. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 must be simple and safe, says IOC's Coates The 2020 Games were due to begin last Friday but were deferred to 2021 given the current situation surrounding the dreaded virus and international travel and quarantine restrictions in some of the biggest countries. The financial ramification to postpone the Tokyo Olympics have been immense with the bill for the quadrennial event coming up to more than $12.6 billion before the historic call was taken to delay the tournament. The International Olympic Committee has estimated the postponement will cost around $800 million whereas Japan has yet to provide an estimate as to how much the deferment will cost the country. ALSO READ: Japan holds subdued celebrations to mark one year until postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics There has been mixed reactions from the sporting fraternity on Tokyo Olympics with many still being less optimistic about conducting the Games if a vaccine is not available by next year whereas others have been of the view that spectator-less Olympics will be too hard on the country and the organisers.

Tokyo opens empty Olympics venues up for public use

Senior Olympic official John Coates has reiterated that Tokyo must stage a simplified Summer Games next year with the health and safety of athletes the most important consideration in the planning.

Australian Coates heads up the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Coordination Commission for the Tokyo 2020 Games, which have been postponed until 2021 because of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“The good news is that all 42 Games’ venues ... have been resecured. The competition schedule is the same,” the IOC Vice President wrote in Sydney’s Daily Telegraph on Friday, a day after the one-year countdown to the opening ceremony.

“But we must reduce the cost impact of postponement as well as simplify the Games to ensure they can be organised efficiently, safely and sustainably, in this new context.

“With one year to go, there is no clear picture of what shape the simplified Games will take. The situation with COVID-19, both domestically and internationally, is constantly changing.”

Coates wrote that putting in place counter-measures against COVID-19 would be no easy task but welcomed the top level commitment from the Japanese government, Tokyo regional government and Games organising committee to get it done.

“The IOC and our Japanese partners ... are doing everything in their power to ensure that not only will the Games go ahead next year, but the athletes remain first and foremost in all our planning,” he added.

“Yes, we want the athletes of the world to have their Olympic moment of competition, just as they would have dreamt. But critically, they must experience that moment in an environment where their health and safety ... is assured.”

Coates is also President of the Australian Olympic Committee and added that the reaction of his country’s athletes to the postponement had been “inspirational”.

“All athletes with a Tokyo dream in their hearts have had to recalibrate their plans for a Games ... they have demonstrated remarkable resilience in making that adjustment,” he wrote.

Senior Olympic official John Coates has reiterated that Tokyo must stage a simplified Summer Games next year with the health and safety of athletes the most important consideration in the planning.

Senior Olympic official John Coates has reiterated that Tokyo must stage a simplified Summer Games next year with the health and safety of athletes the most important consideration in the planning. Australian Coates heads up the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Coordination Commission for the Tokyo 2020 Games, which have been postponed until 2021 because of the global COVID-19 pandemic. “The good news is that all 42 Games’ venues ... have been resecured. The competition schedule is the same,” the IOC Vice President wrote in Sydney’s Daily Telegraph on Friday, a day after the one-year countdown to the opening ceremony. “But we must reduce the cost impact of postponement as well as simplify the Games to ensure they can be organised efficiently, safely and sustainably, in this new context. “With one year to go, there is no clear picture of what shape the simplified Games will take. The situation with COVID-19, both domestically and internationally, is constantly changing.” Coates wrote that putting in place counter-measures against COVID-19 would be no easy task but welcomed the top level commitment from the Japanese government, Tokyo regional government and Games organising committee to get it done. “The IOC and our Japanese partners ... are doing everything in their power to ensure that not only will the Games go ahead next year, but the athletes remain first and foremost in all our planning,” he added. “Yes, we want the athletes of the world to have their Olympic moment of competition, just as they would have dreamt. But critically, they must experience that moment in an environment where their health and safety ... is assured.” Coates is also President of the Australian Olympic Committee and added that the reaction of his country’s athletes to the postponement had been “inspirational”. “All athletes with a Tokyo dream in their hearts have had to recalibrate their plans for a Games ... they have demonstrated remarkable resilience in making that adjustment,” he wrote.

Tokyo 2020 must be simple and safe, says IOC's Coates

Japan holds subdued celebrations on Thursday evening to mark one year until the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to raise concerns whether the quadrennial Games will go ahead next year.

Tokyo was supposed to be cynosure of all eyes with thousands of athletes and fans gracing the events but now the organisers will hold a small event at an empty National Stadium after the public were barred from attending the event following new surge of positive cases.

Olympic countdown board have been reset around the Japanese capital as the digital signs display the message "365 days to go to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics".

<img alt="Tokyo Olympics 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cca75614-4af5-4ea6-b545-2608f057834f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1VN21L.jpg" />

Despite the setbacks and fresh concerns, Japanese and Olympic officials are optimistic of hosting the Games in 2021, serving as a symbol of the world's recovery from the virus.

"They will be the first worldwide gathering after the coronavirus," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach insisted last week.

However, some experts and officials, including Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have raised concerns that there could be a first peace-time cancellation of the showpiece event if the pandemic is not under control by 2021.

While the decision to delay the Games was historic when cases were emerging thick and fast and countries imposed lockdowns that forced the cancellation of qualifiers and events, situation have eased a bit across Europe with infections and deaths from the dreaded virus in decline.&nbsp;

Tokyo also recorded 366 new infections on Thursday, a daily record.

"I'm afraid about the situation," said Sachiko Ahunwan, a 50-year-old department store employee. "It's unclear how far the coronavirus can be settled," she told AFP.

One major obstacle has been cleared, with Tokyo 2020 confirming this month that it has secured all the venues originally contracted for the Games.

"Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," Tokyo 2020 sports director Koji Murofushi said last week.

But sports stars remain less optimistic.

"To be honest, I still can't think about next year's Olympics," Olympic champion and Japanese judo king Shohei Ono told public broadcaster NHK. "I'm just setting a goal only for a week ahead."

 
&nbsp;

Japan holds subdued celebrations on Thursday evening to mark one year until the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to raise concerns whether the quadrennial Games will go ahead next year.

Japan holds subdued celebrations on Thursday evening to mark one year until the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to raise concerns whether the quadrennial Games will go ahead next year. Tokyo was supposed to be cynosure of all eyes with thousands of athletes and fans gracing the events but now the organisers will hold a small event at an empty National Stadium after the public were barred from attending the event following new surge of positive cases. Olympic countdown board have been reset around the Japanese capital as the digital signs display the message "365 days to go to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics". Despite the setbacks and fresh concerns, Japanese and Olympic officials are optimistic of hosting the Games in 2021, serving as a symbol of the world's recovery from the virus. "They will be the first worldwide gathering after the coronavirus," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach insisted last week. However, some experts and officials, including Bach and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have raised concerns that there could be a first peace-time cancellation of the showpiece event if the pandemic is not under control by 2021. While the decision to delay the Games was historic when cases were emerging thick and fast and countries imposed lockdowns that forced the cancellation of qualifiers and events, situation have eased a bit across Europe with infections and deaths from the dreaded virus in decline. Tokyo also recorded 366 new infections on Thursday, a daily record. "I'm afraid about the situation," said Sachiko Ahunwan, a 50-year-old department store employee. "It's unclear how far the coronavirus can be settled," she told AFP. One major obstacle has been cleared, with Tokyo 2020 confirming this month that it has secured all the venues originally contracted for the Games. "Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," Tokyo 2020 sports director Koji Murofushi said last week. But sports stars remain less optimistic. "To be honest, I still can't think about next year's Olympics," Olympic champion and Japanese judo king Shohei Ono told public broadcaster NHK. "I'm just setting a goal only for a week ahead."

Japan holds subdued celebrations to mark one year until postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics

Tokyo 2020 organisers will this autumn begin the task of devising safety protocols to allow the Games to take place if the coronavirus pandemic is still raging.

But Tokyo 2020, which had been due to start on Friday until it was postponed for a year, will not be the first Olympic Games to face a health crisis, although the scale of the challenge posed by COVID-19 is unprecedented.

AFP looks at previous Olympics that went ahead in the face of viral outbreaks.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Nagano 1998: Flu -</h2>

There was an outbreak of influenza the last time Japan hosted the Games -- the Winter Olympics in the central city of Nagano in 1998.

Nearly 1,500 schoolchildren in the Nagano region came down with the flu and some 200 people connected with the Games were taken ill -- although officials stressed other illnesses were also to blame.

The virus prevented Norwegian 1,500 metre gold medal-winning speed skater Adne Sondral from going for a double in the 1,000 metres.

German figure skating medal hopeful Tanja Szewczenko pulled out over health fears and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) also got involved, warning competitors against the flu and advising them to take on plenty of fluids.

That outbreak of flu was unrelated to the killer bird flu hitting southern China at the time.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Rio 2016: Zika -</h2>

Ahead of the 2016 Rio Olympics, the talk was dominated by Zika, a mosquito-borne virus that can cause pregnant women to give birth to babies with microcephaly -- a deformation that results in abnormally small brains and heads.

The Zika outbreak began in 2015 and infected around 1.5 million people, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mainly in Brazil.

There was concern that international visitors to the Games could spread the virus globally, even though the WHO assessed the risk as "minimal."

Some leading tennis players and golfers -- including golf's current world number one Rory McIlroy -- decided not to compete due to fears over the virus.

The stories proved more dramatic than the facts, with no new cases reported during the Games.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Mexico 1968: Flu -</h2>

The 1968 Olympics in Mexico took place during one of the worst pandemics of the 20th century -- the Hong Kong Flu.

It spread throughout Asia after emerging in the then British colony neighbouring southern China, and had reached the Americas by late 1968, eventually killing around one million people but had little impact on the Games.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Antwerp 1920: Flu -</h2>

Held in the aftermath of the Spanish Flu, considered to be the most deadly in history and claiming up to 50 million lives, the Antwerp Games were seen as a symbol of humanity's effort to rebuild after the devastation of World War I.

Although the Spanish Flu killed five times more people than died in 1914-18 war, the impact of the virus was overshadowed by the global conflict.

A century on, Tokyo 2020 organisers have been at pains to stress that if the Games go ahead they will again stand as a beacon&nbsp;of triumph against adversity.

Tokyo 2020 organisers will this autumn begin the task of devising safety protocols to allow the Games to take place if the coronavirus pandemic is still raging. But Tokyo 2020, which had been due to start on Friday until it was postponed for a year, will not be the first Olympic Games to face a health crisis, although the scale of the challenge posed by COVID-19 is unprecedented.

Tokyo 2020 organisers will this autumn begin the task of devising safety protocols to allow the Games to take place if the coronavirus pandemic is still raging. But Tokyo 2020, which had been due to start on Friday until it was postponed for a year, will not be the first Olympic Games to face a health crisis, although the scale of the challenge posed by COVID-19 is unprecedented. AFP looks at previous Olympics that went ahead in the face of viral outbreaks. - Nagano 1998: Flu - There was an outbreak of influenza the last time Japan hosted the Games -- the Winter Olympics in the central city of Nagano in 1998. Nearly 1,500 schoolchildren in the Nagano region came down with the flu and some 200 people connected with the Games were taken ill -- although officials stressed other illnesses were also to blame. The virus prevented Norwegian 1,500 metre gold medal-winning speed skater Adne Sondral from going for a double in the 1,000 metres. German figure skating medal hopeful Tanja Szewczenko pulled out over health fears and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) also got involved, warning competitors against the flu and advising them to take on plenty of fluids. That outbreak of flu was unrelated to the killer bird flu hitting southern China at the time. - Rio 2016: Zika - Ahead of the 2016 Rio Olympics, the talk was dominated by Zika, a mosquito-borne virus that can cause pregnant women to give birth to babies with microcephaly -- a deformation that results in abnormally small brains and heads. The Zika outbreak began in 2015 and infected around 1.5 million people, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mainly in Brazil. There was concern that international visitors to the Games could spread the virus globally, even though the WHO assessed the risk as "minimal." Some leading tennis players and golfers -- including golf's current world number one Rory McIlroy -- decided not to compete due to fears over the virus. The stories proved more dramatic than the facts, with no new cases reported during the Games. - Mexico 1968: Flu - The 1968 Olympics in Mexico took place during one of the worst pandemics of the 20th century -- the Hong Kong Flu. It spread throughout Asia after emerging in the then British colony neighbouring southern China, and had reached the Americas by late 1968, eventually killing around one million people but had little impact on the Games. - Antwerp 1920: Flu - Held in the aftermath of the Spanish Flu, considered to be the most deadly in history and claiming up to 50 million lives, the Antwerp Games were seen as a symbol of humanity's effort to rebuild after the devastation of World War I. Although the Spanish Flu killed five times more people than died in 1914-18 war, the impact of the virus was overshadowed by the global conflict. A century on, Tokyo 2020 organisers have been at pains to stress that if the Games go ahead they will again stand as a beacon of triumph against adversity.

When the Games went viral: historic Olympic health scares

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday.

The Tokyo Olympics had been scheduled to start on Friday but were put back to 2021 because of the pandemic.

Since then, organisers have scrambled to rearrange an event that has been almost a decade in the making whilst trying to ensure next year’s Olympics are safe for athletes, officials and supporters.

Muto said that although organisers hoped the threat posed by the virus could be reduced, nobody knows what the situation will be when the Games start on July 23, 2021.

Organisers are assuming coronavirus will remain a major problem.

“It is rather difficult for us to expect that the coronavirus pandemic is contained,” Muto told Reuters. “But if we can deliver the Games in Tokyo with coronavirus, Tokyo can be the role model for the next Olympic Games or other various international events.”

Muto said he hoped Tokyo 2020 could be the benchmark in a post-pandemic world.

“By delivering the Games successfully in Tokyo we strongly hope that can create a legacy that is in the history of mankind.”

<h3>NEW SPONSORS</h3>

The delay to the Games will incur additional costs for organisers.

Toshiro Muto, Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee Chief Executive Officer, poses for a photograph during an interview with Reuters ahead of the one-year countdown to the Tokyo Olympics that have been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Tokyo, Japan July 21, 2020. Picture taken July 21, 2020. REUTERS/Issei Kato

The International Olympic Committee has already estimated that the postponement will cost them $800 million but the Japanese side has been less forthcoming in giving exact figures.

Muto said the final figure wouldn’t be known until December but hoped that bringing on new sponsors, despite the grim economic forecast, would help bridge the gap.

“I know that businesses are in dire circumstances because of coronavirus but still there are companies who are coming forward to say they want to sponsor the Games, which we appreciate very much,” Muto said.

“It is a bright piece of news.”

On Wednesday, Tokyo 2020 announced that Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, is joining as a new Games sponsor.

Muto said he hoped all of Tokyo 2020’s current sponsors would extend their contracts until the start of the Games next year, although this will come at a cost.

A poll conducted by Japanese public broadcaster NHK last month found two-thirds of Tokyo 2020’s corporate sponsors were undecided on whether to continue their support.

“We are hoping that there will be additional contributions (from existing sponsors) in terms of sponsorship fee because of the postponement of a year,” Muto said. “We would appreciate a lot if they agree to this.”

Muto did not give the names of any other new sponsors.

<h3>SEPTEMBER MEETINGS</h3>

The Games were already set to cost more than 1.35 trillion yen before the postponement, and increased spending might further alienate a public already sceptical of an Olympics they once embraced.

A recent poll conducted by Kyodo News found that fewer than one in four favoured holding the Games as scheduled next year.

Muto said meetings would be held starting in September, with members of the Japanese government and the local Tokyo Metropolitan Government on how best to rebuild support for the Games.

“By making a nationwide effort to implement all possible, conceivable measures to battle coronavirus, the people of the world will be able to come to Tokyo with a peace of mind,” he said. “Once we create such an environment, I think people’s opinions will change.”

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday.

Tokyo Olympics organisers are preparing to host the Games next year even if the global coronavirus pandemic hasn’t eased substantially, organising committee chief executive Toshiro Muto told Reuters on Tuesday. The Tokyo Olympics had been scheduled to start on Friday but were put back to 2021 because of the pandemic. Since then, organisers have scrambled to rearrange an event that has been almost a decade in the making whilst trying to ensure next year’s Olympics are safe for athletes, officials and supporters. Muto said that although organisers hoped the threat posed by the virus could be reduced, nobody knows what the situation will be when the Games start on July 23, 2021. Organisers are assuming coronavirus will remain a major problem. “It is rather difficult for us to expect that the coronavirus pandemic is contained,” Muto told Reuters. “But if we can deliver the Games in Tokyo with coronavirus, Tokyo can be the role model for the next Olympic Games or other various international events.” Muto said he hoped Tokyo 2020 could be the benchmark in a post-pandemic world. “By delivering the Games successfully in Tokyo we strongly hope that can create a legacy that is in the history of mankind.” NEW SPONSORS The delay to the Games will incur additional costs for organisers. Toshiro Muto, Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee Chief Executive Officer, poses for a photograph during an interview with Reuters ahead of the one-year countdown to the Tokyo Olympics that have been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Tokyo, Japan July 21, 2020. Picture taken July 21, 2020. REUTERS/Issei Kato The International Olympic Committee has already estimated that the postponement will cost them $800 million but the Japanese side has been less forthcoming in giving exact figures. Muto said the final figure wouldn’t be known until December but hoped that bringing on new sponsors, despite the grim economic forecast, would help bridge the gap. “I know that businesses are in dire circumstances because of coronavirus but still there are companies who are coming forward to say they want to sponsor the Games, which we appreciate very much,” Muto said. “It is a bright piece of news.” On Wednesday, Tokyo 2020 announced that Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, is joining as a new Games sponsor. Muto said he hoped all of Tokyo 2020’s current sponsors would extend their contracts until the start of the Games next year, although this will come at a cost. A poll conducted by Japanese public broadcaster NHK last month found two-thirds of Tokyo 2020’s corporate sponsors were undecided on whether to continue their support. “We are hoping that there will be additional contributions (from existing sponsors) in terms of sponsorship fee because of the postponement of a year,” Muto said. “We would appreciate a lot if they agree to this.” Muto did not give the names of any other new sponsors. SEPTEMBER MEETINGS The Games were already set to cost more than 1.35 trillion yen before the postponement, and increased spending might further alienate a public already sceptical of an Olympics they once embraced. A recent poll conducted by Kyodo News found that fewer than one in four favoured holding the Games as scheduled next year. Muto said meetings would be held starting in September, with members of the Japanese government and the local Tokyo Metropolitan Government on how best to rebuild support for the Games. “By making a nationwide effort to implement all possible, conceivable measures to battle coronavirus, the people of the world will be able to come to Tokyo with a peace of mind,” he said. “Once we create such an environment, I think people’s opinions will change.”

Tokyo 2020 preparing to deliver Games with COVID-19 - CEO Muto

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus.

Refunds for ticket holders unable to attend the rescheduled games will begin in late 2020, they added.

Tokyo 2020 reported the progress during an online meeting with the International Olympic Committee, confirming that the delayed Games will use all the venues originally booked for the event.

The 2021 event schedule will also be largely the same as the original, except for small changes made for logistical reasons, said Hidemasa Nakamura, Tokyo 2020 games delivery officer.

"There is still work to be done. But we have arrived at a major milestone," Nakamura told a briefing in Tokyo ahead of the IOC meeting.

With the schedule set, athletes can now begin to prepare in earnest for the delayed Games, due to open on July 23, 2021, said Koji Murofushi, Tokyo 2020 sports director.

"Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," he said.

The Games' unprecedented delay has caused major logistical headaches and the final price tag for the postponement remains unclear.

Nakamura said organisers were continuing to discuss where to slash costs, adding that changes to "the opening and closing ceremonies are also on the table".

Among the myriad additional costs yet to be tallied will be compensation for businesses that have had their reservations at Olympic venues cancelled to make way for rescheduled events.

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus.

Tokyo 2020 organisers said Friday they have secured all the venues needed to hold the Olympics next summer, clearing a major hurdle to hosting the event postponed over the coronavirus. Refunds for ticket holders unable to attend the rescheduled games will begin in late 2020, they added. Tokyo 2020 reported the progress during an online meeting with the International Olympic Committee, confirming that the delayed Games will use all the venues originally booked for the event. The 2021 event schedule will also be largely the same as the original, except for small changes made for logistical reasons, said Hidemasa Nakamura, Tokyo 2020 games delivery officer. "There is still work to be done. But we have arrived at a major milestone," Nakamura told a briefing in Tokyo ahead of the IOC meeting. With the schedule set, athletes can now begin to prepare in earnest for the delayed Games, due to open on July 23, 2021, said Koji Murofushi, Tokyo 2020 sports director. "Now athletes aiming to take part in the Tokyo Olympics can set concrete goals to work toward," he said. The Games' unprecedented delay has caused major logistical headaches and the final price tag for the postponement remains unclear. Nakamura said organisers were continuing to discuss where to slash costs, adding that changes to "the opening and closing ceremonies are also on the table". Among the myriad additional costs yet to be tallied will be compensation for businesses that have had their reservations at Olympic venues cancelled to make way for rescheduled events.

Venues secured for delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics: organisers

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee.

The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term.

Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years."

The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021.

Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election.

"I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said.

<h2>- Influential -</h2>

Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president.

He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations.

Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns.

In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress.

Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years.

He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system.

Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there.

He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities.

But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime.

There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge.

Thomas Bach said Friday he will stand in 2021 for a second term as president of the International Olympic Committee. The 66-year-old German was elected for an eight-year term as Olympic chief in September 2013, taking over from Belgian Jacques Rogge. Bach will be eligible for a second and final four-year term. Speaking at the 136th IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, Bach said: "If you, the IOC members, want, I am ready to run for a second term as IOC president and to continue to serve you and this Olympic movement we all love so much for another four years." The IOC presidential elections are slated to take place in Athens in June 2021. Bach, who won gold for West Germany in the foil fencing team event at the 1976 Olympics, claimed a large number of IOC members had recently approached him asking if he would seek re-election. "I am grateful and deeply touched by the many words of encouragement and confidence," Bach said. - Influential - Elected an IOC member at the age of 37, Bach went on to play a series of influential roles within the organisation before being elected its ninth president. He served as vice-president three times and was also chairman of the legal commission and head of anti-doping investigations. Bach says his involvement in sports politics was sparked by West Germany's boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and the government's disregard for athletes' concerns. In 1981, he was elected as the Olympic athletes' spokesperson at the IOC Congress. Under his reign as IOC chief, Bach has had to grapple with several political challenges, and has notably overseen the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and the 2016 Rio Summer Games, both perceived as the most troublesome in recent years. He has also been a key player in the ongoing Russian doping saga, although the IOC came in for criticism from some quarters for not issuing Moscow with a blanket ban over its state-sponsored doping system. Bach also came under fire for reinstating the Russian National Olympic Committee after the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics despite failed drugs tests there. He is credited, however, with having put in place the Olympic Agenda 2020, reforms aimed at cutting costs and streamlining bidding processes to better attract potential host cities. But the German lawyer and businessman could well have his biggest challenge ahead of him, in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a historic move, the Tokyo Olympics were in March postponed until 2021 -- a first in peacetime. There are fears over whether the Games will even go ahead next year, while Beijing is scheduled to host the 2022 Winter Olympics, just six months later.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach to stand for second term

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases.

Japan has not seen an explosive coronavirus outbreak as suffered in some other places but a recent increase in cases in Tokyo, which accounts for more than a third of its more than 20,000 total, has fanned worries about a second wave of infections.

The 2020 Olympics were scheduled to start this month but were postponed because of the coronavirus. Koike has pledged to win public support for the Games, although a media survey showed a majority think they should be cancelled or postponed again.

“I want to host them as a symbol of the world coming together to overcome this tough situation and of strengthened bonds among humankind,” Koike told Reuters in an online interview.

She declined to specify a deadline for deciding if the Games could go ahead.

A media-savvy former television announcer who speaks English and Arabic, Koike is to many a paradox: a global thinker with a nationalist tinge; a political outsider who advanced with help from old-boy mentors, and a risk-taker who shied away from the big gamble of running for parliament in 2017 as head of her upstart “Party of Hope”.

The party floundered after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called a snap election.

Instead, Koike stayed on as Tokyo governor and has won plaudits for her straight-talking handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in contrast to what critics called Abe’s clumsy response.

She was re-elected by a landslide last week, reigniting talk she has a shot at becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister.

On Monday, she sought to brush such speculation aside.

“I’m happy that people have hopes for me but I received support for a second term as governor,” she said.

“I want to protect the lives and health of the people of Tokyo by addressing the immediate issue of policies for the coronavirus. That is my greatest mission.”

<h2>POLITICAL MACHINE?</h2>

Tokyo’s jump in COVID-19 cases comes as Abe’s government prepares to launch a campaign to promote domestic tourism, but that has raised concern about spreading the virus outside the capital.

Koike said it was important both to contain the virus and revive the slumping economy.

“At present, a tough situation continues but ... by taking a proper response in Tokyo, I want to advance both the prevention of infections and social and economic activity,” she said.

Tokyo accounts for about 20% of Japan’s economy.

Koike, who clashed with Abe’s administration over the timing of a state of emergency, and over which businesses to target for shutdowns, said she wanted greater clarity on local governments’ authority during the crisis.

A veteran member of parliament before defying Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to make her 2016 bid for governor, Koike also wants to make the metropolis a global financial centre by luring foreign talent.

Still, speculation persists that she could yet aim for Japan’s top job.

She has already broken several glass ceilings: first female governor of Tokyo, Japan’s first female defence minister and the first woman to run for LDP president.

But creating a new political machine to vault her to the top would be tough, political analysts said.

“Does she have what it takes to be prime minister? Absolutely. But she doesn’t have the political machine that can make it happen,” said a source who has advised Koike for years.

A return to the LDP fold would also face obstacles, given that mutual antagonism runs deep.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, often floated as a future Japanese premier, said on Monday the Olympics must go ahead next year as a symbol of world unity in overcoming the novel coronavirus, even as her city grapples with stubborn spikes in cases. Japan has not seen an explosive coronavirus outbreak as suffered in some other places but a recent increase in cases in Tokyo, which accounts for more than a third of its more than 20,000 total, has fanned worries about a second wave of infections. The 2020 Olympics were scheduled to start this month but were postponed because of the coronavirus. Koike has pledged to win public support for the Games, although a media survey showed a majority think they should be cancelled or postponed again. “I want to host them as a symbol of the world coming together to overcome this tough situation and of strengthened bonds among humankind,” Koike told Reuters in an online interview. She declined to specify a deadline for deciding if the Games could go ahead. A media-savvy former television announcer who speaks English and Arabic, Koike is to many a paradox: a global thinker with a nationalist tinge; a political outsider who advanced with help from old-boy mentors, and a risk-taker who shied away from the big gamble of running for parliament in 2017 as head of her upstart “Party of Hope”. The party floundered after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called a snap election. Instead, Koike stayed on as Tokyo governor and has won plaudits for her straight-talking handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in contrast to what critics called Abe’s clumsy response. She was re-elected by a landslide last week, reigniting talk she has a shot at becoming Japan’s first woman prime minister. On Monday, she sought to brush such speculation aside. “I’m happy that people have hopes for me but I received support for a second term as governor,” she said. “I want to protect the lives and health of the people of Tokyo by addressing the immediate issue of policies for the coronavirus. That is my greatest mission.” POLITICAL MACHINE? Tokyo’s jump in COVID-19 cases comes as Abe’s government prepares to launch a campaign to promote domestic tourism, but that has raised concern about spreading the virus outside the capital. Koike said it was important both to contain the virus and revive the slumping economy. “At present, a tough situation continues but ... by taking a proper response in Tokyo, I want to advance both the prevention of infections and social and economic activity,” she said. Tokyo accounts for about 20% of Japan’s economy. Koike, who clashed with Abe’s administration over the timing of a state of emergency, and over which businesses to target for shutdowns, said she wanted greater clarity on local governments’ authority during the crisis. A veteran member of parliament before defying Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to make her 2016 bid for governor, Koike also wants to make the metropolis a global financial centre by luring foreign talent. Still, speculation persists that she could yet aim for Japan’s top job. She has already broken several glass ceilings: first female governor of Tokyo, Japan’s first female defence minister and the first woman to run for LDP president. But creating a new political machine to vault her to the top would be tough, political analysts said. “Does she have what it takes to be prime minister? Absolutely. But she doesn’t have the political machine that can make it happen,” said a source who has advised Koike for years. A return to the LDP fold would also face obstacles, given that mutual antagonism runs deep.

Olympics must go ahead next year as symbol of overcoming COVID-19, Tokyo governor says

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year.

The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million.

Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries.

That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed.

In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak.

“Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team.

“The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.”

Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm.

“Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health.

Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries.

“Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital.

A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic.

In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September.

In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success.

Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far.

“Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available.

With just over a year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, medical experts say the event could pose a grave health risk to the Japanese public, predicting that few people will have coronavirus antibodies and that vaccines will not be widely available. Olympic organisers and the Japanese and Tokyo metropolitan governments are scrambling for steps to prevent the pandemic from derailing the event. But they say concrete plans are unlikely to shape up before the end of this year. The global death toll from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, reached half a million late last month, and cases topped 10 million. Although Tokyo on Thursday confirmed 224 new infections, a record high for a single day, Japan has largely avoided the disastrous effects seen in other countries. That has scientists and medical experts concerned about how things might look next summer, a year after the Tokyo Games were postponed. In interviews with a dozen infectious diseases experts, a common theme emerged: the Olympics would increase the risk of an outbreak. “Infection will flare up if we push ahead with the Olympics and hold them. There is no doubt about it,” said Daiichi Morii, a doctor at Osaka University Hospital’s infection control team. “The virus is barely under control as we are putting a halt on the inflow of people from overseas,” Morii added. “With events like the Olympics, the virus will come in for sure and the number of infections will shoot up inevitably.” Japan’s success in containing the virus is part of the reason. A recent government survey showed only 0.1% of Tokyo residents have coronavirus antibodies. That is much lower than 14% in the state of New York in April, and 7% in Stockholm. “Very few are infected in Japan and pretty much everyone is susceptible,” said Katsunori Yanagihara, professor in Nagasaki University’s school of tropical medicine and global health. Antibodies help fight off infections, and scientists say having antibodies for the coronavirus might provide protection against re-infection. There are more than 100 potential vaccines in development, but experts say none will likely be available in enough quantity in time for the Olympics, which involves about 200 countries. “Even if a vaccine has been developed by then, it’s near impossible for it to go around the world,” said Atsuo Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University Hospital. A Tokyo voter survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily late last month showed that 59 percent of those polled believe the Olympics should be cancelled or postponed again, underscoring the public’s nagging worries about the pandemic. In a bid to address such concerns, Yoshiro Mori, head of the Tokyo Olympic organising committee, on Monday told the capital’s governor, Yuriko Koike, that he planned to set up a task force with the central and metropolitan governments by September. In the meeting, they discussed infection screening for foreign visitors and limiting crowd sizes, public broadcaster NHK reported. Japan has had only about 20,000 cases and 980 deaths. Researchers have cited various factors for those low numbers, from the nation’s robust healthcare system to infrequent hugging and handshaking. But they say there is no clear single reason for the country’s success. Norio Sugaya, a member of the World Health Organization’s influenza panel, said people in Japan should not feel secure just because of the relatively small scale of infections and deaths there so far. “Talks about how Japan has ridden out the first wave successfully. Talks about ‘Japan miracle’. Those make me very worried,” Sugaya said. “It’s terrifying if there are people out there who believe Japan is invincible.”

With one year to go, experts warn of high-risk Tokyo Olympics amid pandemic

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

As per several reports in Japanese media, organisers are hopeful of using all the venues as planned in the Tokyo Olympics, which was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed amid coronavirus pandemic.

As per Kyodo and NHK, who cited unnamed sources, organisers of the 2021 Games are now confident that all the original venues would be tied down for the Olympics again.

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However, Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya, at his weekly news conference, said the reports were “optimistic” but added that nothing has finalised and announced.&nbsp;

“We have seen a series of media reports concerning the status of securing venues for the Games in 2021,” said Takaya.

"Tokyo 2020 is aware of these reports but I need to be very clear ... this is not something on which Tokyo Metropolitan Government or the Tokyo organising committee has made a formal announcement.

The organising committee has not made such an announcement at this stage and during this process, it is very unfortunate to see such reports based on this optimistic view.”

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Earlier in June, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto had said that 80 per cent off all venues needed was already secured with Athlete’s Village and Tokyo Big Sight – the media centre – among those yet to be completely secured.

However, Thursday’s reports even stated that competition scheduled would remain mostly unchanged and all ticket holders would be eligible for refunds while adding that the organisers of the Games would seek approval of these decisions on IOC’s General Assembly on July 17.

When asked about those details, Takaya said nothing has been decided and Tokyo 2020 didn’t expect to seek approval from the IOC next week. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Tokyo Olympics organisers are hoping to use all the venues as originally planned at the 2021 rearranged Games. Locking on the venues was a top priority for the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics as the Games were pushed back to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic. As per several reports in Japanese media, organisers are hopeful of using all the venues as planned in the Tokyo Olympics, which was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed amid coronavirus pandemic. As per Kyodo and NHK, who cited unnamed sources, organisers of the 2021 Games are now confident that all the original venues would be tied down for the Olympics again. ALSO READ: FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina However, Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya, at his weekly news conference, said the reports were “optimistic” but added that nothing has finalised and announced. “We have seen a series of media reports concerning the status of securing venues for the Games in 2021,” said Takaya. "Tokyo 2020 is aware of these reports but I need to be very clear ... this is not something on which Tokyo Metropolitan Government or the Tokyo organising committee has made a formal announcement. The organising committee has not made such an announcement at this stage and during this process, it is very unfortunate to see such reports based on this optimistic view.” ALSO READ: Chris Froome to leave Team Ineos at end of season Earlier in June, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto had said that 80 per cent off all venues needed was already secured with Athlete’s Village and Tokyo Big Sight – the media centre – among those yet to be completely secured. However, Thursday’s reports even stated that competition scheduled would remain mostly unchanged and all ticket holders would be eligible for refunds while adding that the organisers of the Games would seek approval of these decisions on IOC’s General Assembly on July 17. When asked about those details, Takaya said nothing has been decided and Tokyo 2020 didn’t expect to seek approval from the IOC next week.

Tokyo 2020 looks to secure all venues for the postponed Games: Reports

Just over half of Tokyo's residents don't think the postponed 2020 Olympics should be held next year, backing either a further delay or outright cancellation because of fears over the coronavirus, according to a poll published Monday.

The survey carried out by two Japanese news organisations is only a single data point, but comes after health experts warned that even a year's delay may not be sufficient to hold the Games safely.

The poll conducted over the weekend found 51.7 percent of respondents hope the Games in 2021 are postponed again or cancelled, while 46.3 percent want to see the rescheduled Olympics go ahead.

Among those opposed to a 2021 Games, 27.7 percent said they want them cancelled altogether, while 24.0 percent would prefer a second postponement.

The telephone poll, conducted by Kyodo News and Tokyo MX television between June 26-28, received 1,030 replies.

Of those who said they want to see the Games held next year, 31.1 percent said the event should be in a scaled-back form, including without spectators, while 15.2 percent said they wanted to see a full-blown Olympics.

Tokyo 2020 was postponed in March as the coronavirus spread across the globe, causing&nbsp;the worst disruption to the Olympics since two editions were cancelled during World War II.

The Games are now scheduled to begin on July 23, 2021, although they will still be known as the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Officials from Japan and the International Olympic Committee have warned it will not be possible to postpone again, and even the year-long delay has created significant financial and logistical headaches.

The poll, conducted ahead of the Tokyo gubernatorial election on July 5, also found incumbent Yuriko Koike leading her opponents "by a large margin".

Her precise lead was not specified, in keeping with a media tradition of not publishing polling figures in the days before a vote.

Koike has been heavily involved in preparations for the Games, travelling to Rio for the handover ceremony after the last Summer Olympics.

Earlier this month, she told AFP that the rescheduled Olympics will be safe despite the coronavirus pandemic, pledging a "120-percent effort" to ensure the first-ever postponed Games can go ahead.

Just over half of Tokyo's residents don't think the postponed 2020 Olympics should be held next year, backing either a further delay or outright cancellation because of fears over the coronavirus, according to a poll published Monday.

Just over half of Tokyo's residents don't think the postponed 2020 Olympics should be held next year, backing either a further delay or outright cancellation because of fears over the coronavirus, according to a poll published Monday. The survey carried out by two Japanese news organisations is only a single data point, but comes after health experts warned that even a year's delay may not be sufficient to hold the Games safely. The poll conducted over the weekend found 51.7 percent of respondents hope the Games in 2021 are postponed again or cancelled, while 46.3 percent want to see the rescheduled Olympics go ahead. Among those opposed to a 2021 Games, 27.7 percent said they want them cancelled altogether, while 24.0 percent would prefer a second postponement. The telephone poll, conducted by Kyodo News and Tokyo MX television between June 26-28, received 1,030 replies. Of those who said they want to see the Games held next year, 31.1 percent said the event should be in a scaled-back form, including without spectators, while 15.2 percent said they wanted to see a full-blown Olympics. Tokyo 2020 was postponed in March as the coronavirus spread across the globe, causing the worst disruption to the Olympics since two editions were cancelled during World War II. The Games are now scheduled to begin on July 23, 2021, although they will still be known as the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Officials from Japan and the International Olympic Committee have warned it will not be possible to postpone again, and even the year-long delay has created significant financial and logistical headaches. The poll, conducted ahead of the Tokyo gubernatorial election on July 5, also found incumbent Yuriko Koike leading her opponents "by a large margin". Her precise lead was not specified, in keeping with a media tradition of not publishing polling figures in the days before a vote. Koike has been heavily involved in preparations for the Games, travelling to Rio for the handover ceremony after the last Summer Olympics. Earlier this month, she told AFP that the rescheduled Olympics will be safe despite the coronavirus pandemic, pledging a "120-percent effort" to ensure the first-ever postponed Games can go ahead.

Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll

The race for the governor of Tokyo has picked up the pace with the Olympics coming into the debate. The cost to postpone the Games is in billions and the debate garnered public attention after Taro Yamamoto, a popular actor turned politician, after the opening of the election campaign, said that the Tokyo Olympics should be cancelled as there is still major uncertainty over the vaccine while suggesting the funds saved from the postponement should be redirected to help people struggling from economic disaster.&nbsp;

Incumbent Yuriko Koike is a strong favourite to be reelected and has a strong stance in support of the Games. However, Yamamoto is of the view that the Games should be cancelled as they don’t have a vaccine yet.&nbsp;

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<h2>"The Olympics should be canceled"</h2>

“The Olympics should be canceled," Yamamoto told Koike. “There is no guarantee to hold the games safely in Tokyo, and we don’t have a vaccine yet" for COVID-19.

Yamamoto has alarmed the organisers about brining 11,000 Olympic athletes from around 200 nations and territories, 4,400 Paralympians and thousands more staff, technical officials, broadcasters and media personnel. Fans could bring in more headache for the organisers. Up to 80,000 volunteers were expected to join in before the pandemic hit.&nbsp;

"Tokyo will turn into a Petri dish by having so many people coming from around the world,” Yamamoto said. “We should notify the International Olympic Committee that Tokyo cannot hold the event safely.”

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Increase in bills is a massive issue. Estimates say one-year postponement will cost $2 billion to $6 billion.

Tokyo said it is spending $12.6 billion to organise the Games. Around $5.6 billion is public money. Tokyo had estimated that the cost to organise Games would be $7.3 billion in 2013.&nbsp;

"While many children and athletes are earnestly looking forward to the Olympics, we must keep the coronavirus under control, and the question is if a vaccine will be ready by then. It’s a race against time.” Koike said.

“There are many issues to be resolved,” Koike said. “But when we have a major global goal and share it, and when it becomes a proof of victory in our fight against the coronavirus, what a meaningful event it will be.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The race for the governor of Tokyo has picked up the pace with the Olympics coming into the debate. The cost to postpone the Games is in billions and the debate garnered public attention after Taro Yamamoto, a popular actor turned politician, after the opening of the election campaign, said that the Tokyo Olympics should be cancelled as there is still major uncertainty over the vaccine while suggesting the funds saved from the postponement should be redirected to help people struggling from economic disaster.

The race for the governor of Tokyo has picked up the pace with the Olympics coming into the debate. The cost to postpone the Games is in billions and the debate garnered public attention after Taro Yamamoto, a popular actor turned politician, after the opening of the election campaign, said that the Tokyo Olympics should be cancelled as there is still major uncertainty over the vaccine while suggesting the funds saved from the postponement should be redirected to help people struggling from economic disaster. Incumbent Yuriko Koike is a strong favourite to be reelected and has a strong stance in support of the Games. However, Yamamoto is of the view that the Games should be cancelled as they don’t have a vaccine yet. ALSO READ: Premier League: Man City provide injury update on Eric Garcia after horrific collision with Ederson "The Olympics should be canceled" “The Olympics should be canceled," Yamamoto told Koike. “There is no guarantee to hold the games safely in Tokyo, and we don’t have a vaccine yet" for COVID-19. Yamamoto has alarmed the organisers about brining 11,000 Olympic athletes from around 200 nations and territories, 4,400 Paralympians and thousands more staff, technical officials, broadcasters and media personnel. Fans could bring in more headache for the organisers. Up to 80,000 volunteers were expected to join in before the pandemic hit. "Tokyo will turn into a Petri dish by having so many people coming from around the world,” Yamamoto said. “We should notify the International Olympic Committee that Tokyo cannot hold the event safely.” ALSO READ: Chelsea sign RB Leipzig's Timo Werner: All you need to know about German forward Increase in bills is a massive issue. Estimates say one-year postponement will cost $2 billion to $6 billion. Tokyo said it is spending $12.6 billion to organise the Games. Around $5.6 billion is public money. Tokyo had estimated that the cost to organise Games would be $7.3 billion in 2013. "While many children and athletes are earnestly looking forward to the Olympics, we must keep the coronavirus under control, and the question is if a vaccine will be ready by then. It’s a race against time.” Koike said. “There are many issues to be resolved,” Koike said. “But when we have a major global goal and share it, and when it becomes a proof of victory in our fight against the coronavirus, what a meaningful event it will be.”

'We don't have vaccine yet' - Calls to cancel Olympics in race for Tokyo governor

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that athletes are still banned from protesting at the Games after several sports moved to allow protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death in police custody, the Telegraph has reported.

Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter states “no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.”

Athletes who breach the rule are subject to discipline on a case-by-case basis and the IOC issued guidelines in January clarifying that banned protests include taking a knee and other gestures.

The IOC told the Telegraph the guidelines were still in place and that it would not speculate on “hypothetical cases 13 months before the Olympic Games”, the newspaper said.

Floyd, a 46-year-old African-American man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes on May 25.

His death sparked worldwide protests against racial injustice, with several soccer players in Germany’s Bundesliga delivering their own messages of support during games.

World governing body FIFA, which has shown zero tolerance for players expressing their views on the field, has asked competition organisers to use “common sense” regarding protests over Floyd’s death.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who was widely criticised for the league’s handling of Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling protests in 2016, said on Friday the NFL had made mistakes in not listening to players and encouraged them to speak out and “peacefully protest”.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that athletes are still banned from protesting at the Games after several sports moved to allow protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death in police custody, the Telegraph has reported.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that athletes are still banned from protesting at the Games after several sports moved to allow protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death in police custody, the Telegraph has reported. Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter states “no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.” Athletes who breach the rule are subject to discipline on a case-by-case basis and the IOC issued guidelines in January clarifying that banned protests include taking a knee and other gestures. The IOC told the Telegraph the guidelines were still in place and that it would not speculate on “hypothetical cases 13 months before the Olympic Games”, the newspaper said. Floyd, a 46-year-old African-American man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes on May 25. His death sparked worldwide protests against racial injustice, with several soccer players in Germany’s Bundesliga delivering their own messages of support during games. World governing body FIFA, which has shown zero tolerance for players expressing their views on the field, has asked competition organisers to use “common sense” regarding protests over Floyd’s death. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who was widely criticised for the league’s handling of Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling protests in 2016, said on Friday the NFL had made mistakes in not listening to players and encouraged them to speak out and “peacefully protest”.

IOC confirms protest ban remains - Report

There has been a lot of talks surrounding the Tokyo Olympics, which will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled to be held on August 8, 2021, after the quadrennial event was delayed by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many athletes and sporting federations had raised their concerns regarding the Games before they were postponed but the IOC after consulting with the Japanese government and all the relevant stakeholders came to a mutual agreement that it was the best possible decision to delay the event for the safety and welfare of the athletes and everyone associated with the Tokyo Olympics.&nbsp;

Padma Bhushan awardee, Abhinav Bindra, who is also India’s only individual Olympic gold medallist, spoke to WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, in an exclusive interview,&nbsp;as the recipient of prestigious Blue Cross opened up on a lot of things ranging from the decision to postpone the Games, the ramifications of the Olympics, what is the way forward for the athletes from here and much more.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-i-saw-it-coming-apurvi-chandela-opens-up-on-tokyo-olympics-postponement-and-life-in-lockdown-289643" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'I saw it coming' - Apurvi Chandela opens up on Tokyo Olympics postponement and life in lockdown</a>

<img alt="Abhinav Bindra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eeff109-5fbb-43f5-bf4f-55c70e6a3eb8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APH1234541.jpg" /> 
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Digvijay Singh Deo: Abhinav, let’s start by talking about the decision last evening from the International Olympic Committee. We have new dates for the Olympics and that will go a long way in ending the uncertainty among sportspersons.

Abhinav Bindra: I think the decision has been made pretty quickly, only two weeks back there was a lot of uncertainty about the games getting postponed. The International Olympic Committee has taken a very prompt decision. They initially came up with a four-week deadline to make the call and didn't even use all of it and took a decision within 2 days. They have already revealed the new dates for the games in 2021 which is very good for the athletes. The athletes were getting extremely anxious due to the uncertainty surrounding the games. They would have continued to train if the game were not postponed, thereby putting their lives and their families at risk. So it is a very good decision to postpone and I am happy it was taken very quickly.

DSD:&nbsp;A decision to postpone the Olympic Games is not an easy one. There is just so much riding on the games and new logistical nightmares are bound to crop up when you push Games back. Already the IOC has indicated that first priorities are the games village, sports venues and hotel bookings.

AB: The decision cannot just be taken by the IOC, they have to consult all the relevant stakeholders, those are the organising committee, the government, &nbsp;and the many sponsors. Putting together Olympic games are an extremely complex process, keeping that in mind I think the decision to delay the games was taken very quickly. There was a little bit of pressure being built by the media, but given the stakeholders involved and the magnitude of the event, a timely decision was taken.

DSD: The estimated cost of pushing the games back is being pegged at somewhere between $3 Billion to $6 Billion. I think in this entire postponement drama one seems to have forgotten that it is the Japanese taxpayer who will bear the brunt and they deserve to be lauded for agreeing to this postponement.

AB: Japan needs to be lauded for agreeing to bear the cost of the postponement of the games. Do remember that due to the virus the economic outlook is pretty bleak but they have not flinched. It is extremely commendable, especially during these tough economic times for them to do that. The Japanese people are extremely determined and the preparations to the games have probably been the best ever. All the venues were ready well before time and they have done a fantastic job. They remain committed to hosting the best ever Olympics and I hope to come next year that will be the case.

<img alt="tOKYO oLYMPICS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d165394-6e34-4946-a549-ff2354004bba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1PS34A_0.jpg" />

DSD: You have been in the thick of the decision-making process. You are a member of the International Olympic Committee's Athletes Commission and there has been regular interaction between you all and IOC President Thomas Bach. You could say there was a push back by the athletes in these uncertain times as they were not being able to get on with the best possible preparations for the 2020 Olympics?

AB: I think the athletes' view was given due consideration. The IOC always respects the voice of the athletes. In every commission of the IOC, there is always an Athletes' Representative. Even going forward, safeguarding the athletes and their health is of prime importance. All the Olympic Qualifiers have been put on hold currently and the directive given by the IOC to the International Federations is to hold the qualifiers only when they can guarantee fair access to all the players. That it also very important since 43 % of the athletes are yet to secure their place and they need to be given a fair shot at making the games in July 2021. So the athletes' health has been given prime importance in not only the postponement but also the principles laid out for the qualifiers for the 2021 games.

DSD: Abhinav you were known for your meticulous preparation especially heading into the Olympics. Had you been still competing how difficult would it have been for you as a shooter to have the right frame of mind with all the uncertainty around you and the lockdowns.

AB: Athletes have 15 months to go for the games, which is a big relief. It would have been a disaster in terms of preparation for the athletes if the games had only been postponed for 3 or 4 months, that is much tougher to deal with. Athletes plan their schedule in a way that they can peak just before the Olympics, so now that they have 15 months, they can go back to the drawing board. The priority of the athletes must be their health, whenever they get back to the training they can start afresh and work on a plan for 2021. It is not the ideal scenario, but performing at the highest level is all about adapting and I think that is a skill that athletes do have and they have to put that to good use at the moment. This is an unprecedented situation and not in our control. So the fact that they have 15 months to go for the games will be a big relief for them. But some athletes might be approaching the twilight of their careers, and 15 months is a long time for them. But it is out of our control and life isn't always fair so you have to just get on with it.

<img alt="Abhinav Bindra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a09b37b-5a9e-4d0d-aef5-d5676b6bf6ce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APH1234553.jpg" />

DSD: As it stands we have a new date for the Games but what about those who have won Olympic quota places a long time back. Take the case of your sport. Anjum Moudgil and Apurvi Chandela won quota places in September 2018 and it will be close to 3 years by the time they compete at the Games. Chandela admitted that constantly having to perform and give trials was extremely stressful. What would you advise quota holders like her and also national federations as the prevailing Olympic selection policies are currently in limbo?

AB: The Olympic Quota places belong to the National Olympic Committees and they can rejig their policy ahead of the delayed games if they like. 
There could be two Scenarios- One would be that the NOCs would want to be fair to the athletes and they retain the same team as if the games were to be held in 2020.

Another point of view would be to change the team for the 2021 games as 15 months is a long period of time. But now that there is clarity on the dates, all federations, especially in India, should go back to the drawing board and come up with modified selection policies for the 2021 games at the earliest. We don't now when training will resume in most countries, so it will help the athletes to have clarity on the policies. I think in most countries there will be changes to the selection policy, When it comes to the Indian shooters I think they are very young so it shouldn't be much of a challenge for them and they will be able to adapt quite well.

DSD:&nbsp;We need to divide Olympic hopefuls into two categories. One should those who have qualified for the games and the IOC has announced they or their NOC will retain the quota if it is for a team event. My immediate concern is for those who are yet to qualify. They still are not sure of when the qualification tournaments will resume and most are currently under lockdown across the world. Do you see the process resuming before October 2020?

AB: It doesn't seem like there will be any qualifiers soon. The directive that has been given to the International federations is that appropriate preparation must be allowed for the athletes, which is already being taken into consideration. We don't know when this lockdown will end, there are some countries which have issued advisories and travel restrictions for six months. At the moment all Olympic qualifiers have been suspended. As of now, the way things stand I do not see qualifiers resuming before the end of the year or early next year. But the good thing is that there are 15 months still left, so that gives ample time for scheduling also. The qualifiers would have been a challenge to organise if the games had gone ahead this year. So hopefully things will settle down and return to normalcy over the coming months and the sporting calendar can resume.

<img alt="Abhinav Bindra" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8c2f7eb4-ab77-4e62-b2a5-457eb51429d0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del218640_0.jpg" />

DSD: You mentioned the Indian shooting team some time back. There were a lot of expectations from them ahead of the 2020 Games. They dominated the world stage last year by winning 16 gold medals in the ISSF World Cups and three of them also won titles at the season ending World Cup Finals. What would you advise the likes of Saurabh Chaudhary, Manu Bhaker and Divyansh Singh Panwar who are all under 18 and may not have the experience to deal with the situation we are now facing.

AB: I think a lot of responsibility will rest with the coaches and India has some excellent champions who are now coaching the national teams. I agree that for a very young athlete this kind of a scenario will be tough to handle. They need to be in constant touch with the coaches and I am sure our coaches will be up for the challenge. We have had exceptional success with our coaches in the last few years, and they will need to draw up a fresh plan for preparing for the games. Immediate training is obviously not possible given the situation. Coaches have a huge role to play now as mentors. I would tell the athletes to listen to their coaches. 2019 was obviously an unprecedented year for Indian shooting and it is unheard of for shooters to have back to back golden runs in our sport. Who knows maybe the postponement could be a blessing in disguise for India's shooters.

DSD: On one hand you have shooting and then you have other sports like Badminton. Our star players like Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth and Parupalli Kashyap were all struggling to qualify for the Olympics as tournaments were being cancelled all over. This one year delay gives them an opportunity to regain full fitness and go full throttle at the qualifiers when they finally begin.&nbsp;

AB: The athletes who accept the prevailing situation and adapt to it quickly are the ones who will succeed. There should be no resistance to the postponement. I have spoken to the athletes all over the world as part of my role with the IOC and there is an immense amount of relief. The uncertainty around the games was causing a lot of pressure and stress. Given the situation, people are able to deal with bad news, but they are not able to deal with not knowing. They are more at ease now and they can get back to training as soon as things settle down, but more importantly, they can start re-calibrating their minds and their goals since the dates have been announced. I think the athletes will be able to deal with that.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding the Tokyo Olympics, which will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled to be held on August 8, 2021, after the quadrennial event was delayed by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding the Tokyo Olympics, which will now open on July 23, 2021, with the closing ceremony scheduled to be held on August 8, 2021, after the quadrennial event was delayed by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Many athletes and sporting federations had raised their concerns regarding the Games before they were postponed but the IOC after consulting with the Japanese government and all the relevant stakeholders came to a mutual agreement that it was the best possible decision to delay the event for the safety and welfare of the athletes and everyone associated with the Tokyo Olympics. Padma Bhushan awardee, Abhinav Bindra, who is also India’s only individual Olympic gold medallist, spoke to WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, in an exclusive interview, as the recipient of prestigious Blue Cross opened up on a lot of things ranging from the decision to postpone the Games, the ramifications of the Olympics, what is the way forward for the athletes from here and much more. × ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'I saw it coming' - Apurvi Chandela opens up on Tokyo Olympics postponement and life in lockdown Digvijay Singh Deo: Abhinav, let’s start by talking about the decision last evening from the International Olympic Committee. We have new dates for the Olympics and that will go a long way in ending the uncertainty among sportspersons. Abhinav Bindra: I think the decision has been made pretty quickly, only two weeks back there was a lot of uncertainty about the games getting postponed. The International Olympic Committee has taken a very prompt decision. They initially came up with a four-week deadline to make the call and didn't even use all of it and took a decision within 2 days. They have already revealed the new dates for the games in 2021 which is very good for the athletes. The athletes were getting extremely anxious due to the uncertainty surrounding the games. They would have continued to train if the game were not postponed, thereby putting their lives and their families at risk. So it is a very good decision to postpone and I am happy it was taken very quickly. DSD: A decision to postpone the Olympic Games is not an easy one. There is just so much riding on the games and new logistical nightmares are bound to crop up when you push Games back. Already the IOC has indicated that first priorities are the games village, sports venues and hotel bookings. AB: The decision cannot just be taken by the IOC, they have to consult all the relevant stakeholders, those are the organising committee, the government, and the many sponsors. Putting together Olympic games are an extremely complex process, keeping that in mind I think the decision to delay the games was taken very quickly. There was a little bit of pressure being built by the media, but given the stakeholders involved and the magnitude of the event, a timely decision was taken. DSD: The estimated cost of pushing the games back is being pegged at somewhere between $3 Billion to $6 Billion. I think in this entire postponement drama one seems to have forgotten that it is the Japanese taxpayer who will bear the brunt and they deserve to be lauded for agreeing to this postponement. AB: Japan needs to be lauded for agreeing to bear the cost of the postponement of the games. Do remember that due to the virus the economic outlook is pretty bleak but they have not flinched. It is extremely commendable, especially during these tough economic times for them to do that. The Japanese people are extremely determined and the preparations to the games have probably been the best ever. All the venues were ready well before time and they have done a fantastic job. They remain committed to hosting the best ever Olympics and I hope to come next year that will be the case. DSD: You have been in the thick of the decision-making process. You are a member of the International Olympic Committee's Athletes Commission and there has been regular interaction between you all and IOC President Thomas Bach. You could say there was a push back by the athletes in these uncertain times as they were not being able to get on with the best possible preparations for the 2020 Olympics? AB: I think the athletes' view was given due consideration. The IOC always respects the voice of the athletes. In every commission of the IOC, there is always an Athletes' Representative. Even going forward, safeguarding the athletes and their health is of prime importance. All the Olympic Qualifiers have been put on hold currently and the directive given by the IOC to the International Federations is to hold the qualifiers only when they can guarantee fair access to all the players. That it also very important since 43 % of the athletes are yet to secure their place and they need to be given a fair shot at making the games in July 2021. So the athletes' health has been given prime importance in not only the postponement but also the principles laid out for the qualifiers for the 2021 games. DSD: Abhinav you were known for your meticulous preparation especially heading into the Olympics. Had you been still competing how difficult would it have been for you as a shooter to have the right frame of mind with all the uncertainty around you and the lockdowns. AB: Athletes have 15 months to go for the games, which is a big relief. It would have been a disaster in terms of preparation for the athletes if the games had only been postponed for 3 or 4 months, that is much tougher to deal with. Athletes plan their schedule in a way that they can peak just before the Olympics, so now that they have 15 months, they can go back to the drawing board. The priority of the athletes must be their health, whenever they get back to the training they can start afresh and work on a plan for 2021. It is not the ideal scenario, but performing at the highest level is all about adapting and I think that is a skill that athletes do have and they have to put that to good use at the moment. This is an unprecedented situation and not in our control. So the fact that they have 15 months to go for the games will be a big relief for them. But some athletes might be approaching the twilight of their careers, and 15 months is a long time for them. But it is out of our control and life isn't always fair so you have to just get on with it. DSD: As it stands we have a new date for the Games but what about those who have won Olympic quota places a long time back. Take the case of your sport. Anjum Moudgil and Apurvi Chandela won quota places in September 2018 and it will be close to 3 years by the time they compete at the Games. Chandela admitted that constantly having to perform and give trials was extremely stressful. What would you advise quota holders like her and also national federations as the prevailing Olympic selection policies are currently in limbo? AB: The Olympic Quota places belong to the National Olympic Committees and they can rejig their policy ahead of the delayed games if they like. There could be two Scenarios- One would be that the NOCs would want to be fair to the athletes and they retain the same team as if the games were to be held in 2020. Another point of view would be to change the team for the 2021 games as 15 months is a long period of time. But now that there is clarity on the dates, all federations, especially in India, should go back to the drawing board and come up with modified selection policies for the 2021 games at the earliest. We don't now when training will resume in most countries, so it will help the athletes to have clarity on the policies. I think in most countries there will be changes to the selection policy, When it comes to the Indian shooters I think they are very young so it shouldn't be much of a challenge for them and they will be able to adapt quite well. DSD: We need to divide Olympic hopefuls into two categories. One should those who have qualified for the games and the IOC has announced they or their NOC will retain the quota if it is for a team event. My immediate concern is for those who are yet to qualify. They still are not sure of when the qualification tournaments will resume and most are currently under lockdown across the world. Do you see the process resuming before October 2020? AB: It doesn't seem like there will be any qualifiers soon. The directive that has been given to the International federations is that appropriate preparation must be allowed for the athletes, which is already being taken into consideration. We don't know when this lockdown will end, there are some countries which have issued advisories and travel restrictions for six months. At the moment all Olympic qualifiers have been suspended. As of now, the way things stand I do not see qualifiers resuming before the end of the year or early next year. But the good thing is that there are 15 months still left, so that gives ample time for scheduling also. The qualifiers would have been a challenge to organise if the games had gone ahead this year. So hopefully things will settle down and return to normalcy over the coming months and the sporting calendar can resume. DSD: You mentioned the Indian shooting team some time back. There were a lot of expectations from them ahead of the 2020 Games. They dominated the world stage last year by winning 16 gold medals in the ISSF World Cups and three of them also won titles at the season ending World Cup Finals. What would you advise the likes of Saurabh Chaudhary, Manu Bhaker and Divyansh Singh Panwar who are all under 18 and may not have the experience to deal with the situation we are now facing. AB: I think a lot of responsibility will rest with the coaches and India has some excellent champions who are now coaching the national teams. I agree that for a very young athlete this kind of a scenario will be tough to handle. They need to be in constant touch with the coaches and I am sure our coaches will be up for the challenge. We have had exceptional success with our coaches in the last few years, and they will need to draw up a fresh plan for preparing for the games. Immediate training is obviously not possible given the situation. Coaches have a huge role to play now as mentors. I would tell the athletes to listen to their coaches. 2019 was obviously an unprecedented year for Indian shooting and it is unheard of for shooters to have back to back golden runs in our sport. Who knows maybe the postponement could be a blessing in disguise for India's shooters. DSD: On one hand you have shooting and then you have other sports like Badminton. Our star players like Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth and Parupalli Kashyap were all struggling to qualify for the Olympics as tournaments were being cancelled all over. This one year delay gives them an opportunity to regain full fitness and go full throttle at the qualifiers when they finally begin. AB: The athletes who accept the prevailing situation and adapt to it quickly are the ones who will succeed. There should be no resistance to the postponement. I have spoken to the athletes all over the world as part of my role with the IOC and there is an immense amount of relief. The uncertainty around the games was causing a lot of pressure and stress. Given the situation, people are able to deal with bad news, but they are not able to deal with not knowing. They are more at ease now and they can get back to training as soon as things settle down, but more importantly, they can start re-calibrating their minds and their goals since the dates have been announced. I think the athletes will be able to deal with that.

Exclusive: Abhinav Bindra opens up on Tokyo Olympics, athletes' preparation and much more

Tokyo 2020 officials are looking at ways to scale back next year's postponed Olympics, the city's governor said Thursday, amid reports the opening ceremony could be streamlined and spectator numbers cut.

Yuriko Koike told reporters that organisers were weighing up what could be "rationalised and simplified" as costs spiral for holding the first postponed Games in history.

The International Olympic Committee announced in March the Games would be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed hundreds of thousands and brought international travel to a virtual halt.

The Games are now due to open on July 23, 2021, but organisers face the unprecedented headache of rearranging the event, which requires a costly rejigging of everything from venues to transport.

Local media said streamlining plans could involve cutting the number of spectators attending indoor competitions and reducing participation in the opening and closing ceremonies.

The Yomiuri Shimbun daily quoted an unnamed source as saying that everyone including athletes, officials and spectators would be required to take a test for the virus.

"The top priority is to avoid the worst scenario of cancelling the Games," an unnamed government source told the daily.

Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya was due to brief the media later Thursday.

IOC chief Thomas Bach said last month that 2021 was the "last option" for holding the Tokyo Games, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever.

He declined to say whether a vaccine was a prerequisite for going ahead with the Olympics, but was lukewarm on the idea of holding them behind closed doors.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has said it would be "difficult" to hold the postponed Tokyo Olympics if the coronavirus pandemic is not contained.

And Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori has said the Olympics would have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't brought under control by next year.

Tokyo 2020 officials are looking at ways to scale back next year's postponed Olympics, the city's governor said Thursday, amid reports the opening ceremony could be streamlined and spectator numbers cut.

Tokyo 2020 officials are looking at ways to scale back next year's postponed Olympics, the city's governor said Thursday, amid reports the opening ceremony could be streamlined and spectator numbers cut. Yuriko Koike told reporters that organisers were weighing up what could be "rationalised and simplified" as costs spiral for holding the first postponed Games in history. The International Olympic Committee announced in March the Games would be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic that has killed hundreds of thousands and brought international travel to a virtual halt. The Games are now due to open on July 23, 2021, but organisers face the unprecedented headache of rearranging the event, which requires a costly rejigging of everything from venues to transport. Local media said streamlining plans could involve cutting the number of spectators attending indoor competitions and reducing participation in the opening and closing ceremonies. The Yomiuri Shimbun daily quoted an unnamed source as saying that everyone including athletes, officials and spectators would be required to take a test for the virus. "The top priority is to avoid the worst scenario of cancelling the Games," an unnamed government source told the daily. Tokyo 2020 spokesman Masa Takaya was due to brief the media later Thursday. IOC chief Thomas Bach said last month that 2021 was the "last option" for holding the Tokyo Games, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever. He declined to say whether a vaccine was a prerequisite for going ahead with the Olympics, but was lukewarm on the idea of holding them behind closed doors. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has said it would be "difficult" to hold the postponed Tokyo Olympics if the coronavirus pandemic is not contained. And Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori has said the Olympics would have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't brought under control by next year.

Tokyo weighs scaled-back Olympics, says governor

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

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

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

Olympic chief Bach consults with IOC members over virus fallout

Olympics chief Thomas Bach said 2021 was the "last option" for holding the delayed Tokyo Games on Thursday, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever.

Bach told the BBC that he agreed with Japan's stance that the Games will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't under control by next year.

In March, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed to July 23, 2021 as the coronavirus spread across the globe, killing hundreds of thousands of people and making international sport impossible.

"Quite frankly, I have some understanding for (Japan's position) because you cannot forever employ 3,000, or 5,000, people in an organising committee," the International Olympic Committee president said.

"You cannot every year change the entire sports schedule worldwide for all the major federations.&nbsp;

"You cannot have the athletes being in uncertainty, you cannot have so much overlapping with a future Olympic Games."

The Olympics have never been cancelled outside of the world wars, but Japanese officials have been clear that they have no intention of postponing the Games again beyond next year.

Olympics chief Thomas Bach said 2021 was the "last option" for holding the delayed Tokyo Games on Thursday, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever. Bach told the BBC that he agreed with Japan's stance that the Games will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't under control by next year.

Olympics chief Thomas Bach said 2021 was the "last option" for holding the delayed Tokyo Games on Thursday, stressing that postponement cannot go on forever. Bach told the BBC that he agreed with Japan's stance that the Games will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn't under control by next year. In March, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed to July 23, 2021 as the coronavirus spread across the globe, killing hundreds of thousands of people and making international sport impossible. "Quite frankly, I have some understanding for (Japan's position) because you cannot forever employ 3,000, or 5,000, people in an organising committee," the International Olympic Committee president said. "You cannot every year change the entire sports schedule worldwide for all the major federations. "You cannot have the athletes being in uncertainty, you cannot have so much overlapping with a future Olympic Games." The Olympics have never been cancelled outside of the world wars, but Japanese officials have been clear that they have no intention of postponing the Games again beyond next year.

2021 'last option' for Tokyo Games, says Olympics chief

The World Anti-Doping Agency demanded answers Friday after reports that Chinese swimming star Sun Yang was called up for national training for the Tokyo Olympics in an apparent breach of his doping ban.

The latest incident in the colourful career of the three-time Olympic champion comes two months after he was given an eight-year ban for refusing to provide a doping sample.&nbsp;

Unless he is successful with an appeal, the 28-year-old will not be eligible for the Tokyo Games in 2021 and his career is effectively over.

However, Chinese media said on Thursday that Sun had been included on a list of swimmers called up for national training between April 1 and June 30.

Media published a notice purporting to show Sun's name on the list for preparations for the Olympics, which have been moved to the summer of 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Chinese Swimming Association (CSA) subsequently said that the 1500m freestyle world record-holder is "still serving (his) suspension.

"The previous notice is invalid," CSA said in a short statement.

But that may not satisfy WADA, who said in a short statement to AFP on Friday: "We are following up with the relevant authorities to establish the facts in this matter."

Sun has kept a low profile since he was banned. It was his second doping violation, having been suspended for three months in 2014 for taking a banned substance.

Sun said in the immediate aftermath of February's Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling that he would appeal to the Swiss Federal Tribunal.

He is accused of refusing to provide blood and urine samples when drug testers visited his home in China in September 2018.

A vial of his blood was smashed with a hammer during the tempestuous testing session.

Britain's James Guy, a two-time Olympic silver medallist, said he was "shocked" and "speechless" over the reports that Sun was named in the training squad.

"They've been to CAS, he's been given a ban and that's it. It's over," he said, according to Swimming World.

The World Anti-Doping Agency demanded answers Friday after reports that Chinese swimming star Sun Yang was called up for national training for the Tokyo Olympics in an apparent breach of his doping ban.

The World Anti-Doping Agency demanded answers Friday after reports that Chinese swimming star Sun Yang was called up for national training for the Tokyo Olympics in an apparent breach of his doping ban. The latest incident in the colourful career of the three-time Olympic champion comes two months after he was given an eight-year ban for refusing to provide a doping sample. Unless he is successful with an appeal, the 28-year-old will not be eligible for the Tokyo Games in 2021 and his career is effectively over. However, Chinese media said on Thursday that Sun had been included on a list of swimmers called up for national training between April 1 and June 30. Media published a notice purporting to show Sun's name on the list for preparations for the Olympics, which have been moved to the summer of 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Chinese Swimming Association (CSA) subsequently said that the 1500m freestyle world record-holder is "still serving (his) suspension. "The previous notice is invalid," CSA said in a short statement. But that may not satisfy WADA, who said in a short statement to AFP on Friday: "We are following up with the relevant authorities to establish the facts in this matter." Sun has kept a low profile since he was banned. It was his second doping violation, having been suspended for three months in 2014 for taking a banned substance. Sun said in the immediate aftermath of February's Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling that he would appeal to the Swiss Federal Tribunal. He is accused of refusing to provide blood and urine samples when drug testers visited his home in China in September 2018. A vial of his blood was smashed with a hammer during the tempestuous testing session. Britain's James Guy, a two-time Olympic silver medallist, said he was "shocked" and "speechless" over the reports that Sun was named in the training squad. "They've been to CAS, he's been given a ban and that's it. It's over," he said, according to Swimming World.

WADA wants answers after banned Sun's 'Olympic training call-up'

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

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

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

US Olympic trials set for June 2021 in Eugene

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