The oldest Olympic athlete was a Swedish shooter named Oscar Swahn, who was 72 years, 280 days old when he won a silver medal in the 1920 Olympics. But age is just a number for athletes competing at this year's Tokyo Olympics. From 66-year-old equestrian to 46-year-old gymnast, age is no hurdle while vying for medal at the Olympics this year. Here we take a look at some of the oldest athletes taking part in the Tokyo Olympic Games this year.

Meet the oldest athletes in Tokyo Olympics 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tokyo 2020: Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village

China is missing banned superstar Sun Yang but they will take a record contingent to Tokyo seeking a strong showing with their own Olympics just months away.

The world's most populous country topped the medals table at Beijing 2008 but then slumped to third behind the United States and Britain at Rio 2016, their worst Olympic performance in two decades with 26 golds.

The disappointment was summed up in a tweet by the state-run Xinhua news agency which said: "No gold for CHN gymnasts, Team China has suffered the worst Olympic flop at Rio 2016."

At the Tokyo Games, which were pushed back a year by the coronavirus and will finally open on July 23, China will have a giant squad of 777 athletes and staff, their largest contingent at an overseas Olympics.

But if they are to improve on Rio, China will have to do it without their biggest star.

Controversial swimmer Sun, a triple Olympic gold medallist, was banned last month for more than four years after a second doping violation.

In his absence, China does not have an internationally recognised big name, but the country will still anticipate hoovering up gold medals in diving, table tennis and weightlifting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-and-pakistan-set-to-clash-in-super-12-stage-of-icc-t20-world-cup-398542">Also read |&nbsp;Cricket: India and Pakistan set to clash in Super 12 stage of ICC T20 World Cup</a>

Chinese media has branded its divers a "Dream Team" capable of carting off all eight golds in the sport.&nbsp;

There are also high hopes for the women's volleyball side, led by star spiker Zhu Ting, and in the swimming pool with Zhang Yufei.

Chinese media dubbed the 23-year-old Zhang "the new butterfly queen" after she soared at the national swimming championships in May, winning five gold medals and a silver.

Beijing Olympics loom

China's performances at the Olympics and place in the medals table are always a source of national pride, but there is added spice this time because of the fierce historical rivalry between China and Japan.

Moreover, because of the year's delay to the Tokyo Olympics, there is just six months between the Summer Games in Japan and Winter Games in Beijing.

The 2022 Olympics in the Chinese capital will come into sharp view immediately after Tokyo, especially when it comes to how organisers will deal with the coronavirus.

Sports blogger Ma Bowen is confident that China will come second in the medals table in Tokyo, behind the United States, partly because Chinese athletes will feel more at home in the familiar surroundings of Japan than they did in Rio.

"Because the Winter Olympics are right on our doorstep, China will want good results (in Tokyo) to drive everyone's enthusiasm for sport," added Ma, who has 800,000 followers on the Twitter-like Weibo.

"After Chinese people feel the vibe in Tokyo, they will pay more attention to the Beijing Games."

Like all athletes, China's competitors have been badly disrupted by the coronavirus, restricted to national tournaments and training in secure "bubbles" in the lead-up to Tokyo.

State media has, however, been keen to give the impression that they are gamely ploughing on with limited impact to their preparations.

Because of repeated obstacles thrown up by the virus, there will be particular interest in the women's football team.

The "Steel Roses" endured a tortuous qualifying campaign that saw them quarantined and training in a hotel corridor in Australia in the earliest days of the pandemic.

After repeated delays and rescheduling, they finally sealed a last-ditch spot in Tokyo in April after defeating South Korea in extra time in a tense play-off.

Fittingly, China's match-winner was Wang Shuang, the Wuhan native who was stranded in the city when the outbreak emerged there towards the end of 2019.

China is missing banned superstar Sun Yang but they will take a record contingent to Tokyo seeking a strong showing with their own Olympics just months away. The world's most populous country topped the medals table at Beijing 2008 but then slumped to third behind the United States and Britain at Rio 2016, their worst Olympic performance in two decades with 26 golds.

China is missing banned superstar Sun Yang but they will take a record contingent to Tokyo seeking a strong showing with their own Olympics just months away. The world's most populous country topped the medals table at Beijing 2008 but then slumped to third behind the United States and Britain at Rio 2016, their worst Olympic performance in two decades with 26 golds. The disappointment was summed up in a tweet by the state-run Xinhua news agency which said: "No gold for CHN gymnasts, Team China has suffered the worst Olympic flop at Rio 2016." At the Tokyo Games, which were pushed back a year by the coronavirus and will finally open on July 23, China will have a giant squad of 777 athletes and staff, their largest contingent at an overseas Olympics. But if they are to improve on Rio, China will have to do it without their biggest star. Controversial swimmer Sun, a triple Olympic gold medallist, was banned last month for more than four years after a second doping violation. In his absence, China does not have an internationally recognised big name, but the country will still anticipate hoovering up gold medals in diving, table tennis and weightlifting. Also read | Cricket: India and Pakistan set to clash in Super 12 stage of ICC T20 World Cup Chinese media has branded its divers a "Dream Team" capable of carting off all eight golds in the sport. There are also high hopes for the women's volleyball side, led by star spiker Zhu Ting, and in the swimming pool with Zhang Yufei. Chinese media dubbed the 23-year-old Zhang "the new butterfly queen" after she soared at the national swimming championships in May, winning five gold medals and a silver. Beijing Olympics loom China's performances at the Olympics and place in the medals table are always a source of national pride, but there is added spice this time because of the fierce historical rivalry between China and Japan. Moreover, because of the year's delay to the Tokyo Olympics, there is just six months between the Summer Games in Japan and Winter Games in Beijing. The 2022 Olympics in the Chinese capital will come into sharp view immediately after Tokyo, especially when it comes to how organisers will deal with the coronavirus. Sports blogger Ma Bowen is confident that China will come second in the medals table in Tokyo, behind the United States, partly because Chinese athletes will feel more at home in the familiar surroundings of Japan than they did in Rio. "Because the Winter Olympics are right on our doorstep, China will want good results (in Tokyo) to drive everyone's enthusiasm for sport," added Ma, who has 800,000 followers on the Twitter-like Weibo. "After Chinese people feel the vibe in Tokyo, they will pay more attention to the Beijing Games." Like all athletes, China's competitors have been badly disrupted by the coronavirus, restricted to national tournaments and training in secure "bubbles" in the lead-up to Tokyo. State media has, however, been keen to give the impression that they are gamely ploughing on with limited impact to their preparations. Because of repeated obstacles thrown up by the virus, there will be particular interest in the women's football team. The "Steel Roses" endured a tortuous qualifying campaign that saw them quarantined and training in a hotel corridor in Australia in the earliest days of the pandemic. After repeated delays and rescheduling, they finally sealed a last-ditch spot in Tokyo in April after defeating South Korea in extra time in a tense play-off. Fittingly, China's match-winner was Wang Shuang, the Wuhan native who was stranded in the city when the outbreak emerged there towards the end of 2019.

No Sun Yang, but China eager to atone for 'worst Olympic flop'

Tokyo Olympics organisers revealed the first Covid-19 case in the Games Village on Saturday as they sought to reassure competitors that the pandemic-delayed event would be safe.

Six days before the opening ceremony, organisers said an unnamed person had tested positive for coronavirus in the Village, where thousands of athletes and officials will stay during the Games.

"There was one person in the Village. That was the very first case in the Village that was reported during the screening test," Masa Takaya, spokesman for the Tokyo organising committee, told a press conference.

"Right now this person is confined to a hotel," Takaya said.

Japanese media reported that the person who had tested positive was a foreign national. The Games are facing opposition from the Japanese public, who fear a fresh wave of infections.

Seiko Hashimoto, the chief organiser of the Tokyo 2020 Games, said organisers were ready to respond swiftly if there was a wider outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-victoria-state-put-under-lockdown-amid-virus-surge-398239">Also read |&nbsp;Australia's Victoria state put under lockdown amid virus surge</a>

"We are doing everything to prevent any Covid outbreaks. If we end up with an outbreak we will make sure we have a plan in place to respond," she said.

Hashimoto conceded that competitors at the Games, which were postponed for a year because of the pandemic, would be anxious about the virus situation -- and she vowed that organisers would not hide cases.

"Athletes who are coming to Japan are probably very worried. I understand that," she said.

"That is the reason why we need to make full disclosure."&nbsp;

Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said it was not yet known if the person had been vaccinated against Covid-19.

"We don't have any information on whether this person was vaccinated or not," Muto said.

He said competitors at the Games would be tested every day "so if someone tests positive, that person will be isolated immediately whether there are any close contacts or not".

Tokyo Olympics organisers revealed the first Covid-19 case in the Games Village on Saturday as they sought to reassure competitors that the pandemic-delayed event would be safe.

Tokyo Olympics organisers revealed the first Covid-19 case in the Games Village on Saturday as they sought to reassure competitors that the pandemic-delayed event would be safe. Six days before the opening ceremony, organisers said an unnamed person had tested positive for coronavirus in the Village, where thousands of athletes and officials will stay during the Games. "There was one person in the Village. That was the very first case in the Village that was reported during the screening test," Masa Takaya, spokesman for the Tokyo organising committee, told a press conference. "Right now this person is confined to a hotel," Takaya said. Japanese media reported that the person who had tested positive was a foreign national. The Games are facing opposition from the Japanese public, who fear a fresh wave of infections. Seiko Hashimoto, the chief organiser of the Tokyo 2020 Games, said organisers were ready to respond swiftly if there was a wider outbreak. Also read | Australia's Victoria state put under lockdown amid virus surge "We are doing everything to prevent any Covid outbreaks. If we end up with an outbreak we will make sure we have a plan in place to respond," she said. Hashimoto conceded that competitors at the Games, which were postponed for a year because of the pandemic, would be anxious about the virus situation -- and she vowed that organisers would not hide cases. "Athletes who are coming to Japan are probably very worried. I understand that," she said. "That is the reason why we need to make full disclosure." Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said it was not yet known if the person had been vaccinated against Covid-19. "We don't have any information on whether this person was vaccinated or not," Muto said. He said competitors at the Games would be tested every day "so if someone tests positive, that person will be isolated immediately whether there are any close contacts or not".

First COVID-19 case hits Tokyo Olympics Village

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;athlete.

Hubbard, who was born male but transitioned to female in her 30s, has sparked debate with her selection, which came after she met the qualification criteria for transgender competitors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-weightlifter-selected-as-first-transgender-olympian-393005">New Zealand weightlifter selected as first transgender Olympian</a>

"We are working really closely with Laurel, as we do with any athlete, but particularly because of the huge focus on her," New Zealand&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee communications director Ashley Abbott said.

"To look at what is going to be best for her in terms of interaction with the media. So, of course, there's limits and things like that."

Hubbard became eligible to lift as a woman after proving her testosterone levels were below the threshold required by the International&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee. She will contest the women's +87kg category in Tokyo.

IOC rules state a trans woman can compete provided her testosterone levels are below 10 nanomoles per litre.

But critics say Hubbard has numerous physical advantages from growing up male that makes her presence in the competition unfair for female-born athletes.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-picks-first-transgender-athlete-for-olympics-392958/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hubbard, an intensely private person who avoids the media, also competed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast, where she suffered a career-threatening injury.

"We will continue to work with her and make sure she is supported at all times and has got an understanding about what the environment might be like," Abbott said.

"It's certainly something we have considered."

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender Olympic athlete.

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender Olympic athlete. Hubbard, who was born male but transitioned to female in her 30s, has sparked debate with her selection, which came after she met the qualification criteria for transgender competitors. Also read | New Zealand weightlifter selected as first transgender Olympian "We are working really closely with Laurel, as we do with any athlete, but particularly because of the huge focus on her," New Zealand Olympic Committee communications director Ashley Abbott said. "To look at what is going to be best for her in terms of interaction with the media. So, of course, there's limits and things like that." Hubbard became eligible to lift as a woman after proving her testosterone levels were below the threshold required by the International Olympic Committee. She will contest the women's +87kg category in Tokyo. IOC rules state a trans woman can compete provided her testosterone levels are below 10 nanomoles per litre. But critics say Hubbard has numerous physical advantages from growing up male that makes her presence in the competition unfair for female-born athletes. Hubbard, an intensely private person who avoids the media, also competed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast, where she suffered a career-threatening injury. "We will continue to work with her and make sure she is supported at all times and has got an understanding about what the environment might be like," Abbott said. "It's certainly something we have considered."

New Zealand say 'huge focus' on trans trailblazer at Tokyo Olympics

After the latest meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB), IOC President Thomas Bach highlighted the successful implementation of the COVID-19 countermeasures outlined in the key stakeholder Playbooks and promised to bring the vibe of the world into the venues of Tokyo Olympics.

During the meeting, the IOC EB was informed by Tokyo 2020 that, between July 1 and 16, around 15,000 athletes, officials, and representatives from the media and other stakeholders had arrived in Tokyo. Only 15 had tested positive on their arrival or during a screening test, accounting for 0.1 per cent of arrivals so far.

Details were also shared about a state-of-the-art virtual audio experience that will be used in all venues. This will see sounds from individual sports from past Games broadcast through audio systems to create the effect of spectators despite their absence, providing strong, emotional connections with athletes.

Speaking about this, the IOC President said in a release: "We will make every effort to bring the vibe of the world into the venues. Billions of people around the world will follow the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 via rights-holding broadcasters and other digital and media platforms. These will be the most followed Games in Olympic history."

Further updates from the Tokyo 2020 organisers emphasised their Games readiness. This was illustrated through the full opening of the Olympic Village, International Broadcast Centre (IBC), and Main Press Centre (MPC) earlier this week, venues moving into operational mode, and the knowledge that athletes are making their final preparations.As part of measures to manage the COVID-19 situation, the Organising Committee highlighted the decision made earlier this month that no spectators will be allowed to attend Tokyo 2020 events.&nbsp;

To mitigate the impact of this, the IOC shared details of its plans to connect billions of fans to this year`s Games through unprecedented broadcast coverage and digital innovations. These include the use of digital, real-time live cheer maps, fan videos that will be broadcast in venues, and the possibility for athletes to speak to close family and friends directly after they have competed.

After the latest meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB), IOC President Thomas Bach highlighted the successful implementation of the COVID-19 countermeasures outlined in the key stakeholder Playbooks and promised to bring the vibe of the world into the venues of Tokyo Olympics.

After the latest meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB), IOC President Thomas Bach highlighted the successful implementation of the COVID-19 countermeasures outlined in the key stakeholder Playbooks and promised to bring the vibe of the world into the venues of Tokyo Olympics. During the meeting, the IOC EB was informed by Tokyo 2020 that, between July 1 and 16, around 15,000 athletes, officials, and representatives from the media and other stakeholders had arrived in Tokyo. Only 15 had tested positive on their arrival or during a screening test, accounting for 0.1 per cent of arrivals so far. Details were also shared about a state-of-the-art virtual audio experience that will be used in all venues. This will see sounds from individual sports from past Games broadcast through audio systems to create the effect of spectators despite their absence, providing strong, emotional connections with athletes. Speaking about this, the IOC President said in a release: "We will make every effort to bring the vibe of the world into the venues. Billions of people around the world will follow the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 via rights-holding broadcasters and other digital and media platforms. These will be the most followed Games in Olympic history." Further updates from the Tokyo 2020 organisers emphasised their Games readiness. This was illustrated through the full opening of the Olympic Village, International Broadcast Centre (IBC), and Main Press Centre (MPC) earlier this week, venues moving into operational mode, and the knowledge that athletes are making their final preparations.As part of measures to manage the COVID-19 situation, the Organising Committee highlighted the decision made earlier this month that no spectators will be allowed to attend Tokyo 2020 events. To mitigate the impact of this, the IOC shared details of its plans to connect billions of fans to this year`s Games through unprecedented broadcast coverage and digital innovations. These include the use of digital, real-time live cheer maps, fan videos that will be broadcast in venues, and the possibility for athletes to speak to close family and friends directly after they have competed.

Will make every effort to bring vibes of the world to Tokyo 2020 venues: IOC President Bach

A little after the International Olympic Committee reported the first coronavirus case in the Olympic village, the Chief, Thomas Bach, has urged Japan locals to support the games.

"I appeal to the Japanese people to welcome these athletes here for the competition of their life," Bach said. In a bid to prove how secure the games are, he called the Tokyo Olympics to be the "most restrictive sports event... in the entire world."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-first-case-of-coronavirus-in-olympic-village-398641">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-first-case-of-coronavirus-in-olympic-village-398641/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His statement came after the Olympic village reported its first coronavirus case. "I would like once more to ask and to invite the Japanese people, humbly, to welcome and support the athletes from around the world," Bach urged Japanese people.

While the nation is worried about the first reported Covid case, Bach claims that it is just 15 people who have tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, out of 15,000. He used this data to support his argument that the IOC is following strict anti-coronavirus measures and are conducting daily tests for athletes.

To make the locals tad happy and hopeful, Bach also teased the idea of inviting fans back to the stadiums as spectators. "We will keep monitoring the anti-Covid developments. And if the circumstances should change, then we do have another immediate five parties meeting to address this with the relevant anti COVID-19 measures," he said.

A little after the International Olympic Committee reported the first coronavirus case in the Olympic village, the Chief, Thomas Bach, has urged Japan locals to support the games.

A little after the International Olympic Committee reported the first coronavirus case in the Olympic village, the Chief, Thomas Bach, has urged Japan locals to support the games. "I appeal to the Japanese people to welcome these athletes here for the competition of their life," Bach said. In a bid to prove how secure the games are, he called the Tokyo Olympics to be the "most restrictive sports event... in the entire world." WATCH | His statement came after the Olympic village reported its first coronavirus case. "I would like once more to ask and to invite the Japanese people, humbly, to welcome and support the athletes from around the world," Bach urged Japanese people. While the nation is worried about the first reported Covid case, Bach claims that it is just 15 people who have tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, out of 15,000. He used this data to support his argument that the IOC is following strict anti-coronavirus measures and are conducting daily tests for athletes. To make the locals tad happy and hopeful, Bach also teased the idea of inviting fans back to the stadiums as spectators. "We will keep monitoring the anti-Covid developments. And if the circumstances should change, then we do have another immediate five parties meeting to address this with the relevant anti COVID-19 measures," he said.

Tokyo Olympic 'most restrictive sports event': IOC chief urges Japanese locals' support

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

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

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

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

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

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

Just days before the much-awaited Tokyo Olympics, a Ugandan athlete has reportedly gone missing after disappearing from his hotel at a training camp in the Japanese town.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-tennis-star-novak-djokovic-confirms-he-will-compete-at-tokyo-games-398388" hreflang="en">Olympics: Tennis star Novak Djokovic confirms he will compete at Tokyo Games</a>

According to AFP, the town hosting the delegation said that 20-year-old weightlifter Julius Ssekitoleko did not appear for his test of Covid-19 and wasn't also seen in his hotel room.

"One member of the Ugandan delegation, which the city received as a host town, has gone missing and cannot be reached," the city of Izumisano said in a statement."The city is making all efforts to search for the individual. We have reported the matter to police."

Athletes from Uganda arrived in Japan last month, they went to Izumisano in Osaka region for a pre-Games training camp.&nbsp;

However, a coach tested positive on arrival, and other delegation members were subsequently asked to self-isolate, with a second member later testing positive.

The Games will take place behind closed doors due to a state of emergency in Tokyo. The Japanese capital is already facing a surge in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

Athletes and other Olympic participants are subject to strict rules including regular testing and limits on their movement.

(Inputs from Agency)

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

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

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

A person with knowledge of the situation says U.S. Olympic guard Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards has entered the health and safety protocols related to the coronavirus, which raises the possibility that he might miss the Tokyo Games. Beal will be tested multiple times in the coming days, according to the person who spoke Wednesday to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the player involved for USA Basketball was not revealed publicly. The results of those tests will likely determine if he remains on the roster, the person said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-covid-19-cluster-emerges-at-hotel-hosting-brazilian-olympians-398140" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: COVID-19 cluster emerges at hotel hosting Brazilian Olympians</a>

“A member of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team has been placed under USA Basketball’s health and safety protocols," the federation announced in a statement Wednesday afternoon, without identifying the player involved. USA Basketball could still replace Beal before heading to Tokyo. The Americans picked their 12-man team last month but noted that it may change if necessary.

Players, and their family members, in Las Vegas, have been tested daily during their training camp there. Many have family with them now since those loved ones will not be allowed to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics because of virus-related restrictions there. Mask-wearing has been required and many of the same rules and policies that players had to adhere to during the NBA season has carried over to the U.S. camp. Beal has played in, and started, all three exhibitions for the U.S. so far in Las Vegas, averaging 10.3 points on 10 for 21 shooting. He has improved with each game, starting with a two-point effort in a loss to Nigeria, a 12-point effort in a loss to Australia then scored 17 in Monday night’s win over Argentina.

This would be Beal’s first time as an Olympian if he makes it to Tokyo. The U.S. doesn’t play a game in the Olympics until July 25 against France. “It was easy decision for me," Beal said after Monday’s win, appearing at a press conference without a mask but walking into the room with one on, and placing it back on before getting up to exit the room. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the Olympic team and be on this stage and have the opportunity to represent my country.

“Ultimately, you know, this is fun," Beal added. “This is something you want to be a part of and you realize not every player has that opportunity or blessing to play on this team. For me, it was a no-brainer." Beal averaged a career-best 31.3 points this season for Washington, earning his third All-Star selection and first All-NBA nod. Meanwhile, Tokyo reported its highest number of new COVID-19 cases in almost six months on Wednesday a bad sign with the Olympics set to open in just over a week. The 1,149 new cases reported in Tokyo on Wednesday was the highest one-day total since Jan. 22, and numbers have been surging in the Olympic host city for nearly a month.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach have both pledged that the Tokyo Olympics will be safe and secure, amid a government-mandated state of emergency in and around much of the Tokyo area. USA Basketball has two more exhibitions remaining, first Friday against Australia and then Sunday against Spain. The team is scheduled to fly to the Olympics on Monday.

If Beal cannot play in the remaining exhibitions, the Americans would be down to eight of their 12 players. The other three not in Las Vegas with the team Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday and Devin Booker are at the NBA Finals with Milwaukee and Phoenix.

A person with knowledge of the situation says U.S. Olympic guard Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards has entered the health and safety protocols related to the coronavirus, which raises the possibility that he might miss the Tokyo Games.

A person with knowledge of the situation says U.S. Olympic guard Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards has entered the health and safety protocols related to the coronavirus, which raises the possibility that he might miss the Tokyo Games. Beal will be tested multiple times in the coming days, according to the person who spoke Wednesday to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the player involved for USA Basketball was not revealed publicly. The results of those tests will likely determine if he remains on the roster, the person said. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: COVID-19 cluster emerges at hotel hosting Brazilian Olympians “A member of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team has been placed under USA Basketball’s health and safety protocols," the federation announced in a statement Wednesday afternoon, without identifying the player involved. USA Basketball could still replace Beal before heading to Tokyo. The Americans picked their 12-man team last month but noted that it may change if necessary. Players, and their family members, in Las Vegas, have been tested daily during their training camp there. Many have family with them now since those loved ones will not be allowed to travel to Tokyo for the Olympics because of virus-related restrictions there. Mask-wearing has been required and many of the same rules and policies that players had to adhere to during the NBA season has carried over to the U.S. camp. Beal has played in, and started, all three exhibitions for the U.S. so far in Las Vegas, averaging 10.3 points on 10 for 21 shooting. He has improved with each game, starting with a two-point effort in a loss to Nigeria, a 12-point effort in a loss to Australia then scored 17 in Monday night’s win over Argentina. This would be Beal’s first time as an Olympian if he makes it to Tokyo. The U.S. doesn’t play a game in the Olympics until July 25 against France. “It was easy decision for me," Beal said after Monday’s win, appearing at a press conference without a mask but walking into the room with one on, and placing it back on before getting up to exit the room. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the Olympic team and be on this stage and have the opportunity to represent my country. “Ultimately, you know, this is fun," Beal added. “This is something you want to be a part of and you realize not every player has that opportunity or blessing to play on this team. For me, it was a no-brainer." Beal averaged a career-best 31.3 points this season for Washington, earning his third All-Star selection and first All-NBA nod. Meanwhile, Tokyo reported its highest number of new COVID-19 cases in almost six months on Wednesday a bad sign with the Olympics set to open in just over a week. The 1,149 new cases reported in Tokyo on Wednesday was the highest one-day total since Jan. 22, and numbers have been surging in the Olympic host city for nearly a month. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach have both pledged that the Tokyo Olympics will be safe and secure, amid a government-mandated state of emergency in and around much of the Tokyo area. USA Basketball has two more exhibitions remaining, first Friday against Australia and then Sunday against Spain. The team is scheduled to fly to the Olympics on Monday. If Beal cannot play in the remaining exhibitions, the Americans would be down to eight of their 12 players. The other three not in Las Vegas with the team Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday and Devin Booker are at the NBA Finals with Milwaukee and Phoenix.

US basketball star Bradley Beal might miss Tokyo Olympics as he enters Covid safety protocols

<div>The International Olympic Committee (IOC) president plans to visit Hiroshima, but the residents of the city are calling for it to be cancelled because it would "dishonour" the victims of the bomb attack.</div>

In the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a>, Thomas Bach has angered many Japanese with his decisions regarding Tokyo 2020.

On Friday, the first day of the Olympic Truce, he will visit the city's peace memorial park.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-iocs-bach-confident-of-sporting-success-despite-pandemic-398305">Tokyo Olympics: IOC's Bach confident of sporting success despite pandemic</a>

According to the Kyodo news agency, Kunihiko Sakuma, a leader of a group that supports Hibakusha or Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors says that holding the Olympics during a time when many lives were lost due to the virus, runs counter to the Games' spirit, which should be one of peace.

Nearly 75,000 signatures have been collected in an online petition opposing the trip. As the petition's sponsors noted, Bach's visit came just 76 years after the Trinity nuclear test in New Mexico, which led to Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

According to Bach, his focus was just on marking the start of the Olympic Truce. He said that his visit was purely about peace and that this was the message he intended to convey in the city of peace of Hiroshima.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-covid-19-cluster-emerges-at-hotel-hosting-brazilian-olympians-398140">Tokyo Olympics: COVID-19 cluster emerges at hotel hosting Brazilian Olympians</a>

He also said that Politics will not factor into this and that this visit will not be politicized in any way.

Nihon Hidankyo, an organisation that represents survivors of both atomic bombings, has given no public comment on Bach's visit, but&nbsp;Sueichi Kido, its secretary-general&nbsp;said that he thought Bach should stay away.

It seems that Bach is using Hiroshima to further his cause, Kido told the Guardian in a personal capacity, stressing that he was speaking for himself.&nbsp;

He said that, despite Bach's claims, he doesn't trust anything Bach says, adding that the IOC is only interested in making money with these Olympics.

In addition to meeting Hidehiko Yuzaki, Hiroshima's governor and visiting the peace memorial park and museum, Bach will view the A-bomb dome, one of the few areas left standing after the attack on 6 August 1945.<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/most-at-tokyo-olympic-village-to-be-vaccinated-by-games-386002/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

A death toll of 80,000 of the 350,000 inhabitants of Hiroshima was recorded instantly; by the end of the year, it stood at 140,000, as survivors died from radiation-induced injuries or illnesses.

Tokyo 2020 organisers announced that the vice-president of the IOC John Coates will be visiting Nagasaki on Friday. He will lay a wreath at a memorial cenotaph at the peace park and the peace memorial hall.

Earlier this year, Coates sparked anger by saying the postponed Tokyo Games would "absolutely" take place even if the city were under a State of Emergency due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/social-distancing-tokyo-olympics-winners-will-have-to-put-their-medals-on-necks-by-themselves-398072">Social distancing: Tokyo Olympics winners will have to put their medals on necks by themselves</a>

A sharp rise in cases has prompted Tokyo to put in place emergency measures, including banning alcohol sales in bars and restaurants. The number of new infections reached 1,149 on Thursday, the most in nearly six months.

Bach said the cancellation was never an option, describing the games as a moment to show solidarity with the world during the pandemic.

It would have been a tragedy to lose a whole generation of athletes if the cancellation would have occurred," stated he in an interview with Kyodo.&nbsp;

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) president plans to visit Hiroshima, but the residents of the city are calling for it to be cancelled because it would "dishonour" the victims of the bomb attack.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) president plans to visit Hiroshima, but the residents of the city are calling for it to be cancelled because it would "dishonour" the victims of the bomb attack. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Thomas Bach has angered many Japanese with his decisions regarding Tokyo 2020. On Friday, the first day of the Olympic Truce, he will visit the city's peace memorial park. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: IOC's Bach confident of sporting success despite pandemic According to the Kyodo news agency, Kunihiko Sakuma, a leader of a group that supports Hibakusha or Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors says that holding the Olympics during a time when many lives were lost due to the virus, runs counter to the Games' spirit, which should be one of peace. Nearly 75,000 signatures have been collected in an online petition opposing the trip. As the petition's sponsors noted, Bach's visit came just 76 years after the Trinity nuclear test in New Mexico, which led to Hiroshima and Nagasaki. According to Bach, his focus was just on marking the start of the Olympic Truce. He said that his visit was purely about peace and that this was the message he intended to convey in the city of peace of Hiroshima. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: COVID-19 cluster emerges at hotel hosting Brazilian Olympians He also said that Politics will not factor into this and that this visit will not be politicized in any way. Nihon Hidankyo, an organisation that represents survivors of both atomic bombings, has given no public comment on Bach's visit, but Sueichi Kido, its secretary-general said that he thought Bach should stay away. It seems that Bach is using Hiroshima to further his cause, Kido told the Guardian in a personal capacity, stressing that he was speaking for himself. He said that, despite Bach's claims, he doesn't trust anything Bach says, adding that the IOC is only interested in making money with these Olympics. In addition to meeting Hidehiko Yuzaki, Hiroshima's governor and visiting the peace memorial park and museum, Bach will view the A-bomb dome, one of the few areas left standing after the attack on 6 August 1945. A death toll of 80,000 of the 350,000 inhabitants of Hiroshima was recorded instantly; by the end of the year, it stood at 140,000, as survivors died from radiation-induced injuries or illnesses. Tokyo 2020 organisers announced that the vice-president of the IOC John Coates will be visiting Nagasaki on Friday. He will lay a wreath at a memorial cenotaph at the peace park and the peace memorial hall. Earlier this year, Coates sparked anger by saying the postponed Tokyo Games would "absolutely" take place even if the city were under a State of Emergency due to COVID-19. Also read | Social distancing: Tokyo Olympics winners will have to put their medals on necks by themselves A sharp rise in cases has prompted Tokyo to put in place emergency measures, including banning alcohol sales in bars and restaurants. The number of new infections reached 1,149 on Thursday, the most in nearly six months. Bach said the cancellation was never an option, describing the games as a moment to show solidarity with the world during the pandemic. It would have been a tragedy to lose a whole generation of athletes if the cancellation would have occurred," stated he in an interview with Kyodo.

Olympic chief accused of insulting Hiroshima survivors by visiting atomic bombing site

According to reports, four Olympic contractors from the United States and Britain have been arrested in the Japanese capital Tokyo over allegedly using cocaine.

Japanese media reports said they were electricians with two belonging to UK and the other two from the United States. The arrests had reportedly taken place between July 3-5.

The four men were tested for drugs, police said. They were reportedly working for an electric generator company and were involved in the maintenance work of electric generators for the Tokyo Olympics.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-declares-state-of-emergency-due-to-covid-19-two-weeks-ahead-of-tokyo-olympics-396729/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The men were arrested under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law as the Olympic organisers in a statement added that a strict warning will be issued to the company if the allegations are proved against the four men.

Japan is set to welcome thousands of athletes and officials including the world media as it hosts the Olympics from July 23 to August 8.&nbsp;

Reports say the men were working for British company Aggreko. Japanese media report said the four men had entered the country between February and May and were living in Tokyo.

The men were allegedly drinking in Tokyo's Roppongi entertainment district and one of the men reportedly broke into an apartment complex as the police intervened and arrested them.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said the arrests were "an individual issue and a question for the local justice authorities".

Tokyo has been put under a state of emergency due to the virus surge even as the city's governor Yuriko Koike assured the country that it will be able to hold a "safe and secure" Olympics.

The four men were reportedly arrested before the state of emergency came into force in the capital. The city's bars and restaurants have been ordered to shut early even as Olympic organisers banned spectators from attending the mega event.

The Olympics were postponed last year due to the pandemic but is set to go ahead this year with Tokyo under the spotlight as it experiences its fourth state of emergency in over a year.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to reports, four Olympic contractors from the United States and Britain have been arrested in the Japanese capital Tokyo over allegedly using cocaine. Japanese media reports said they were electricians with two belonging to UK and the other two from the United States.

According to reports, four Olympic contractors from the United States and Britain have been arrested in the Japanese capital Tokyo over allegedly using cocaine. Japanese media reports said they were electricians with two belonging to UK and the other two from the United States. The arrests had reportedly taken place between July 3-5. The four men were tested for drugs, police said. They were reportedly working for an electric generator company and were involved in the maintenance work of electric generators for the Tokyo Olympics. Watch: The men were arrested under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law as the Olympic organisers in a statement added that a strict warning will be issued to the company if the allegations are proved against the four men. Japan is set to welcome thousands of athletes and officials including the world media as it hosts the Olympics from July 23 to August 8. Reports say the men were working for British company Aggreko. Japanese media report said the four men had entered the country between February and May and were living in Tokyo. The men were allegedly drinking in Tokyo's Roppongi entertainment district and one of the men reportedly broke into an apartment complex as the police intervened and arrested them. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said the arrests were "an individual issue and a question for the local justice authorities". Tokyo has been put under a state of emergency due to the virus surge even as the city's governor Yuriko Koike assured the country that it will be able to hold a "safe and secure" Olympics. The four men were reportedly arrested before the state of emergency came into force in the capital. The city's bars and restaurants have been ordered to shut early even as Olympic organisers banned spectators from attending the mega event. The Olympics were postponed last year due to the pandemic but is set to go ahead this year with Tokyo under the spotlight as it experiences its fourth state of emergency in over a year. (With inputs from Agencies)

Police arrest four Olympic contractors in Tokyo over alleged cocaine consumption

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

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

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

Tokyo enters 4th COVID-19 emergency as Olympics approach

Nick Kyrgios will not represent Australia at this year's Olympics in Tokyo because he does not want to compete if there are no fans in the stands, he said on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, Olympic organisers said the Games would take place without spectators in host city Tokyo as a resurgent coronavirus forced Japan to declare a state of emergency in the capital that will continue throughout the event which starts on July 23.

"It has been my dream to represent Australia at the Olympics and I know I may never get that opportunity again," the 26-year-old Kyrgios wrote on social media.

"But I also know myself. The thought of playing in front of empty stands just doesn't sit right with me. It never has."

He added that he would not want to take an opportunity away from a healthy Australian athlete ready to represent the country and that he will use the time to "get his body right".

Kyrgios retired during his third-round match at Wimbledon against Felix Auger Aliassime on Saturday due to an abdominal injury.

Kyrgios joins some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Serena Williams and Simona Halep, in skipping the Games.

Nick Kyrgios will not represent Australia at this year's Olympics in Tokyo because he does not want to compete if there are no fans in the stands, he said on Thursday.

Nick Kyrgios will not represent Australia at this year's Olympics in Tokyo because he does not want to compete if there are no fans in the stands, he said on Thursday. Earlier in the day, Olympic organisers said the Games would take place without spectators in host city Tokyo as a resurgent coronavirus forced Japan to declare a state of emergency in the capital that will continue throughout the event which starts on July 23. "It has been my dream to represent Australia at the Olympics and I know I may never get that opportunity again," the 26-year-old Kyrgios wrote on social media. "But I also know myself. The thought of playing in front of empty stands just doesn't sit right with me. It never has." He added that he would not want to take an opportunity away from a healthy Australian athlete ready to represent the country and that he will use the time to "get his body right". Kyrgios retired during his third-round match at Wimbledon against Felix Auger Aliassime on Saturday due to an abdominal injury. Kyrgios joins some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Serena Williams and Simona Halep, in skipping the Games.

Tennis: Nick Kyrgios says he will not play at fan-free Tokyo Games

He’s made it to the Olympics 4x400m relay and will be representing India -a country of 1.3 billion people. But, his parents- Pandi, a construction labourer and Panchavarnam, a homemaker, hardly have an inkling of an idea of how significant their son’s feat is. However, for his colleagues at the Tamil Nadu Police, this is a historic leap, as one from their Service has made it to the world’s biggest sporting event. Zee Media spoke to the 25-year old sprinter to understand his journey thus far.

Growing up, Naganathan never had it easy. His father’s meagre income from working as a construction or agricultural labourer was what fed the five children and their homemaker mother. It was a struggle for his parents to even make ends meet, while also ensuring that the five children got their education. After they turned 15, Naganathan and his brother worked as construction labourers, ferrying material, and performing masonry over the weekends to support their family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It was around 10th grade (aged 15) that Naganathan had taken to running. His foray was purely out of fascination from seeing his peers succeed on the track in his village school. He started off as a barefoot runner, as shoes were too much of a luxury. With the support of his Physical training teacher from school, he ran 1500m races. Following his encouraging performance, the school gifted him a pair of running spikes, by the time he was in 12th grade.

While pursuing his BA History at the PTMTM college in his hometown, he continued his stellar runs by winning golds at the college and university level with 400m timings of nearly 49 seconds. A certificate from having taken part in an all India meet in Bengaluru made him eligible to apply for a job in the State Police department, under the sports quota.&nbsp;

Having passed the entrance tests, he joined the Tamil Nadu Police in 2017 as a Constable, with a posting in Chennai. To better his track performance, despite having less time to spare, he trained before and after his duty hours. It was Prabhakaran, a friend and batchmate who recognized the inherent potential and coached Naganathan during his initial days in the service, in the absence of a dedicated coach.&nbsp;

To continue his training and nutrition, along with his basic living expenses in an expensive metropolis like Chennai, Naganathan even secured a loan of Rs.5 lakhs - of which he spent 3 lakhs for his needs and offered the rest to his family, back home in Ramanathapuram. Manikandan, an athlete since his schooling and also Naganathan’s roommate was also instrumental in helping the sprinter cope with injuries and better his technique, besides making the necessary arrangement for training and equipment.&nbsp;

Since 2019, there has been no looking back for Naganathan who went on to bag an individual Gold (400m) at the Chief Minister’s Meet, a gold at the 400m individual and relay events in the All India Police meet in Chandigarh, followed by another gold in the 400m individuals at the Indian Grand Prix. He also ran a personal best and completed the 400m dash in 46.09 seconds at the Federation Cup, which took him to the Indian Camp at Patiala that was training sportspersons for the Olympics.

To this day, his friends continue to lend him money to support his training and basic needs. The sprinter says that he repays his friends promptly after he receives his salary, but whatever remains is barely sufficient for his sustenance. Recently, he was also gifted a running kit by the Greater Chennai Police.

Until he started winning big at the National level, Naganathan didn’t even tell his parents about his athletics training and achievements. All this was owing to fear of backlash from his uneducated parents, who wanted their five children to continue and focus on their respective academic pursuits and careers to support the family. In the eyes of his parents, sports are a needless pursuit, in the face of all their struggles to fend for themselves.&nbsp;

Now he coyly admits that his parents have some knowledge about the Olympics and are happy about his feats. He credits his siblings for having convinced their parents and conveyed the message of his having won the coveted ticket and an India jersey to Tokyo.

He’s made it to the Olympics 4x400m relay and will be representing India -a country of 1.3 billion people. But, his parents- Pandi, a construction labourer and Panchavarnam, a homemaker, hardly have an inkling of an idea of how significant their son’s feat is.

He’s made it to the Olympics 4x400m relay and will be representing India -a country of 1.3 billion people. But, his parents- Pandi, a construction labourer and Panchavarnam, a homemaker, hardly have an inkling of an idea of how significant their son’s feat is. However, for his colleagues at the Tamil Nadu Police, this is a historic leap, as one from their Service has made it to the world’s biggest sporting event. Zee Media spoke to the 25-year old sprinter to understand his journey thus far. Growing up, Naganathan never had it easy. His father’s meagre income from working as a construction or agricultural labourer was what fed the five children and their homemaker mother. It was a struggle for his parents to even make ends meet, while also ensuring that the five children got their education. After they turned 15, Naganathan and his brother worked as construction labourers, ferrying material, and performing masonry over the weekends to support their family. It was around 10th grade (aged 15) that Naganathan had taken to running. His foray was purely out of fascination from seeing his peers succeed on the track in his village school. He started off as a barefoot runner, as shoes were too much of a luxury. With the support of his Physical training teacher from school, he ran 1500m races. Following his encouraging performance, the school gifted him a pair of running spikes, by the time he was in 12th grade. While pursuing his BA History at the PTMTM college in his hometown, he continued his stellar runs by winning golds at the college and university level with 400m timings of nearly 49 seconds. A certificate from having taken part in an all India meet in Bengaluru made him eligible to apply for a job in the State Police department, under the sports quota. Having passed the entrance tests, he joined the Tamil Nadu Police in 2017 as a Constable, with a posting in Chennai. To better his track performance, despite having less time to spare, he trained before and after his duty hours. It was Prabhakaran, a friend and batchmate who recognized the inherent potential and coached Naganathan during his initial days in the service, in the absence of a dedicated coach. To continue his training and nutrition, along with his basic living expenses in an expensive metropolis like Chennai, Naganathan even secured a loan of Rs.5 lakhs - of which he spent 3 lakhs for his needs and offered the rest to his family, back home in Ramanathapuram. Manikandan, an athlete since his schooling and also Naganathan’s roommate was also instrumental in helping the sprinter cope with injuries and better his technique, besides making the necessary arrangement for training and equipment. Since 2019, there has been no looking back for Naganathan who went on to bag an individual Gold (400m) at the Chief Minister’s Meet, a gold at the 400m individual and relay events in the All India Police meet in Chandigarh, followed by another gold in the 400m individuals at the Indian Grand Prix. He also ran a personal best and completed the 400m dash in 46.09 seconds at the Federation Cup, which took him to the Indian Camp at Patiala that was training sportspersons for the Olympics. To this day, his friends continue to lend him money to support his training and basic needs. The sprinter says that he repays his friends promptly after he receives his salary, but whatever remains is barely sufficient for his sustenance. Recently, he was also gifted a running kit by the Greater Chennai Police. Until he started winning big at the National level, Naganathan didn’t even tell his parents about his athletics training and achievements. All this was owing to fear of backlash from his uneducated parents, who wanted their five children to continue and focus on their respective academic pursuits and careers to support the family. In the eyes of his parents, sports are a needless pursuit, in the face of all their struggles to fend for themselves. Now he coyly admits that his parents have some knowledge about the Olympics and are happy about his feats. He credits his siblings for having convinced their parents and conveyed the message of his having won the coveted ticket and an India jersey to Tokyo.

Naganathan Pandi - Trained & ran barefoot, toiled as construction worker, now a Police Constable and 4x400m Olympian

At a meeting with experts, Japanese government officials proposed a plan to issue a state of emergency in Tokyo from next Monday to August 22, fearing an ongoing COVID-19 surge will multiply during the Olympic games.

Japan to declare virus emergency lasting through Tokyo Olympics

American sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson on Tuesday was declined by USA Track &amp; Field (USATF) to be a part of the 4x100-metre relay team for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo after she tested positive for cannabis use. However, the White House has decided to step in to review the anti-doping rules in sport on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-shacarri-richardson-not-selected-to-us-relay-team-after-testing-positive-for-cannabis-396376" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Sha'Carri Richardson not selected to US relay team after testing positive for cannabis</a>

As per Richardson, she used the banned substance to cope with the death of her mother. The 21-year-old sprinter was expected to be one of the biggest stars for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but is unable to compete in the individual 100m event as her suspension wiped out her win at the trials.

"We know the rules are where they are, maybe we should take another look at them," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a CNN interview, adding that President Joe Biden had paid particular attention to her after the tragedy she endured.

"We certainly have to respect the role of the US&nbsp;Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and the US&nbsp;Olympic Committee and the decisions they make," said Psaki. "But it is sad, and we do wish her luck and look forward to seeing her running, running as the fastest woman in the world, and for years to come."

In response, USADA CEO Travis Tygart said the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was the global arbiter.

"While the US&nbsp;government has a seat at the table to provide feedback, and will continue to speak up for athletes, we are ultimately bound to the WADA rules," he said in a statement.

"This is true even in sad and tough cases like this one, where we might take a different approach if the choice was ours to make."

USATF said on Tuesday that its "heartfelt understanding lies with Sha'Carri" but that out of fairness for other athletes it had declined to select her for the team.

(Inputs from Agency)&nbsp;

American sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson on Tuesday was declined by USA Track & Field (USATF) to be a part of the 4x100-metre relay team for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo after she tested positive for cannabis use.

American sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson on Tuesday was declined by USA Track & Field (USATF) to be a part of the 4x100-metre relay team for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo after she tested positive for cannabis use. However, the White House has decided to step in to review the anti-doping rules in sport on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Sha'Carri Richardson not selected to US relay team after testing positive for cannabis As per Richardson, she used the banned substance to cope with the death of her mother. The 21-year-old sprinter was expected to be one of the biggest stars for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics but is unable to compete in the individual 100m event as her suspension wiped out her win at the trials. "We know the rules are where they are, maybe we should take another look at them," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a CNN interview, adding that President Joe Biden had paid particular attention to her after the tragedy she endured. "We certainly have to respect the role of the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and the US Olympic Committee and the decisions they make," said Psaki. "But it is sad, and we do wish her luck and look forward to seeing her running, running as the fastest woman in the world, and for years to come." In response, USADA CEO Travis Tygart said the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was the global arbiter. "While the US government has a seat at the table to provide feedback, and will continue to speak up for athletes, we are ultimately bound to the WADA rules," he said in a statement. "This is true even in sad and tough cases like this one, where we might take a different approach if the choice was ours to make." USATF said on Tuesday that its "heartfelt understanding lies with Sha'Carri" but that out of fairness for other athletes it had declined to select her for the team. (Inputs from Agency)

Tokyo Olympics: White House to review anti-doping rules after Richardson ban

The World Health Organization, which is advising the International Olympic Committee in the run-up to the Tokyo Games opening later this month, is urging caution so as to stem the spread of the coronavirus, a senior WHO official said on Friday. 
 
Crowds at Euro 2020 soccer stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities are driving the current rise in COVID-19 infections in Europe, the WHO`s regional office said on Thursday. 
 
Maria van Kerkhove, WHO technical lead on COVID-19 at its global headquarters, was asked what lessons it was drawing from the Euro 2020 tournament in order to advise the IOC and Tokyo organisers ahead of the event`s opening on July 23. 
 
"The IOC and others have outlined their plans in taking their approach for the Olympics, and we have been engaging with them and advising them on the best use of those plans," van Kerkhove told a Geneva news conference. 
 
She said the WHO was learning from Euro 2020, adding: "If the virus is present and precautions are not in place the virus will spread." 
 
"We urge caution. We urge everyone to take caution in what they do," she added. 
 
"We urge everybody to take a risk-based approach in what they do and the decisions that they make. The choices that they make and the events they attend have consequences, good and bad." 
 
Mike Ryan, head of WHO`s emergencies programme, said last month that it would discuss managing COVID-19 risks with Japanese authorities and the IOC, after organisers announced some spectators would be permitted to attend, although fans from overseas have already been banned. 
&nbsp;

The World Health Organization, which is advising the International Olympic Committee in the run-up to the Tokyo Games opening later this month, is urging caution so as to stem the spread of the coronavirus, a senior WHO official said on Friday.

The World Health Organization, which is advising the International Olympic Committee in the run-up to the Tokyo Games opening later this month, is urging caution so as to stem the spread of the coronavirus, a senior WHO official said on Friday. Crowds at Euro 2020 soccer stadiums and in pubs and bars in host cities are driving the current rise in COVID-19 infections in Europe, the WHO`s regional office said on Thursday. Maria van Kerkhove, WHO technical lead on COVID-19 at its global headquarters, was asked what lessons it was drawing from the Euro 2020 tournament in order to advise the IOC and Tokyo organisers ahead of the event`s opening on July 23. "The IOC and others have outlined their plans in taking their approach for the Olympics, and we have been engaging with them and advising them on the best use of those plans," van Kerkhove told a Geneva news conference. She said the WHO was learning from Euro 2020, adding: "If the virus is present and precautions are not in place the virus will spread." "We urge caution. We urge everyone to take caution in what they do," she added. "We urge everybody to take a risk-based approach in what they do and the decisions that they make. The choices that they make and the events they attend have consequences, good and bad." Mike Ryan, head of WHO`s emergencies programme, said last month that it would discuss managing COVID-19 risks with Japanese authorities and the IOC, after organisers announced some spectators would be permitted to attend, although fans from overseas have already been banned.

'We urge caution,' WHO says on Tokyo Olympics

Japan is considering an extension of its coronavirus prevention measures in Tokyo and other areas by two weeks to a month, Japanese media said, with less than a month to go until the Tokyo Summer Olympics are set to open. 
 
The Japanese capital and other areas are currently under a `quasi` state of emergency set to be lifted on July 12, but a recent uptick in coronavirus cases has officials concerned and could affect the number of spectators allowed in to Olympics venues. 
 
According to the Mainichi Shimbun daily, the government is considering extending the measures by two to four weeks, a period that would overlap with the Olympics, already delayed a year, that open on July 23. 
 
A government meeting on coronavirus measures is set to be held later on Wednesday to discuss ways of dealing with signs of an impending surge in coronavirus numbers that has experts worried, along with concern about the spread of more highly transmissible variants. 
 
"Any decisions regarding quasi-emergency measures will be taken based on policies we have in place," chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato told a news conference. 
 
Under the `quasi` state of emergency, spectators at events are capped at 5,000. Olympics organisers have ruled that spectators will be allowed up to 50 per cent of the venue capacity or a maximum of 10,000, though foreign spectators have been banned. 
 
Meanwhile, Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike, who had been in hospital due to fatigue, was released early on Wednesday. Media reports said she would be working from home for an indefinite period. 
 
Tokyo on Tuesday decided to move the first half of the 15-day Olympic torch relay scheduled to take place in the capital off public roads. 
 
Officials have pledged to hold a "safe and secure" Olympic Games but face continuing resistance from a substantial part of the public, with worries fanned after two members of the Ugandan delegation tested positive after arriving in Japan. 
&nbsp;

Japan is considering an extension of its coronavirus prevention measures in Tokyo and other areas by two weeks to a month, Japanese media said, with less than a month to go until the Tokyo Summer Olympics are set to open.

Japan is considering an extension of its coronavirus prevention measures in Tokyo and other areas by two weeks to a month, Japanese media said, with less than a month to go until the Tokyo Summer Olympics are set to open. The Japanese capital and other areas are currently under a `quasi` state of emergency set to be lifted on July 12, but a recent uptick in coronavirus cases has officials concerned and could affect the number of spectators allowed in to Olympics venues. According to the Mainichi Shimbun daily, the government is considering extending the measures by two to four weeks, a period that would overlap with the Olympics, already delayed a year, that open on July 23. A government meeting on coronavirus measures is set to be held later on Wednesday to discuss ways of dealing with signs of an impending surge in coronavirus numbers that has experts worried, along with concern about the spread of more highly transmissible variants. "Any decisions regarding quasi-emergency measures will be taken based on policies we have in place," chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato told a news conference. Under the `quasi` state of emergency, spectators at events are capped at 5,000. Olympics organisers have ruled that spectators will be allowed up to 50 per cent of the venue capacity or a maximum of 10,000, though foreign spectators have been banned. Meanwhile, Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike, who had been in hospital due to fatigue, was released early on Wednesday. Media reports said she would be working from home for an indefinite period. Tokyo on Tuesday decided to move the first half of the 15-day Olympic torch relay scheduled to take place in the capital off public roads. Officials have pledged to hold a "safe and secure" Olympic Games but face continuing resistance from a substantial part of the public, with worries fanned after two members of the Ugandan delegation tested positive after arriving in Japan.

Tokyo may extend coronavirus curbs into Olympics period: Media

Tokyo Olympics 2020 faces the risk of becoming a super-spreader event. How are the organisers tackling the COVID-19 threat and dissent? WION's Molly Gambhir speaks to Tatsuo Ogura from the Tokyo Olympics Organising Committee.

Tokyo Olympics to kick off amid COVID-19 threat

Japanese Emperor&nbsp;Naruhito&nbsp;"appears concerned" about the possibility the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">Olympic Games</a> could cause the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> to spread as feared by many members of the public, the head of the Imperial Household Agency (IHA) said on Thursday.

While the emperor's concern was framed as the official's impression rather than something he explicitly expressed, the rare insight into the monarch's thinking on the Games lit up social media, with many wondering whether there would be a formal address on the topic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Tokyo Olympics 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears</a>

"The emperor is extremely worried about the current status of coronavirus infections," IHA Grand Steward Yasuhiko Nishimura told a regular news conference on Thursday.

"Given the public's worries, he appears to me to be concerned about whether the Olympics and Paralymics event, for which he is honorary patron, would cause infections to spread."

As news of the chamberlain's comment spread, "IHA Grand Steward" and related keywords were tagged on tens of thousands of posts on Twitter.

The emperor has no political power but is widely respected as a figurehead in Japan, although it is rare for him to make public statements. His attendance at the opening ceremony on July 23 has not been decided, the IHA said.

Asked about the comment, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto told reporters he did not believe that the chamberlain's remarks indicated that there were any problems with preparations for the Games, which were delayed for a year by the pandemic.

"Our responsibility is to alleviate the concerns of the public and ensure that the Games are held in a safe and secure manner, and we will continue to work at that," Muto said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-infection-expert-eyes-olympics-with-excitement-concern-393099">Japan infection expert eyes Olympics with excitement, concern</a>

Many Japanese remain sceptical about the possibility of holding even a scaled-down Games safely during the pandemic. Organisers have excluded foreign spectators and limited the number of domestic ones for the event. Alcohol, high-fives and talking loudly will also be banned.

'Situation still dire'

Japan has largely avoided the kind of explosive coronavirus outbreaks that have devastated other countries, but its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> roll-out was initially slow and the medical system has been pushed to the brink in some places.

On Thursday, advisers to the Tokyo metropolitan government warned that people were moving around more after the government lifted a state of emergency in the capital and elsewhere this week, and that could cause infections to creep up.

The medical system remained stretched to the limit as health workers were also busy vaccinating the public, one expert said.

They also warned of signs that more infectious variants could spread rapidly in the coming weeks and months.

"Although we're now in a 'quasi' state of emergency, the situation is still very dire," Tokyo Vice Governor Mitsuchika Tarao told reporters, standing in for Governor Yuriko Koike, who was hospitalised this week to recover from fatigue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uganda-olympic-team-member-tests-positive-on-arrival-in-japan-392664">Uganda Olympic team member tests positive on arrival in Japan</a>

Underscoring such concerns, a second member of the Ugandan team tested positive for the coronavirus on Wednesday, several days after the team member had tested negative upon arrival in Japan.

Earlier in the week, the World Health Organization's head of emergencies programme, Mike Ryan, noted that infection rates in Japan had been falling, and said they compared favourably to other countries that were hosting big events.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito "appears concerned" about the possibility the Olympic Games could cause the coronavirus to spread as feared by many members of the public, the head of the Imperial Household Agency (IHA) said on Thursday.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito "appears concerned" about the possibility the Olympic Games could cause the coronavirus to spread as feared by many members of the public, the head of the Imperial Household Agency (IHA) said on Thursday. While the emperor's concern was framed as the official's impression rather than something he explicitly expressed, the rare insight into the monarch's thinking on the Games lit up social media, with many wondering whether there would be a formal address on the topic. Also read | Tokyo Olympics 2020 chief rules out delay despite pandemic fears "The emperor is extremely worried about the current status of coronavirus infections," IHA Grand Steward Yasuhiko Nishimura told a regular news conference on Thursday. "Given the public's worries, he appears to me to be concerned about whether the Olympics and Paralymics event, for which he is honorary patron, would cause infections to spread." As news of the chamberlain's comment spread, "IHA Grand Steward" and related keywords were tagged on tens of thousands of posts on Twitter. The emperor has no political power but is widely respected as a figurehead in Japan, although it is rare for him to make public statements. His attendance at the opening ceremony on July 23 has not been decided, the IHA said. Asked about the comment, Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto told reporters he did not believe that the chamberlain's remarks indicated that there were any problems with preparations for the Games, which were delayed for a year by the pandemic. "Our responsibility is to alleviate the concerns of the public and ensure that the Games are held in a safe and secure manner, and we will continue to work at that," Muto said. Also read | Japan infection expert eyes Olympics with excitement, concern Many Japanese remain sceptical about the possibility of holding even a scaled-down Games safely during the pandemic. Organisers have excluded foreign spectators and limited the number of domestic ones for the event. Alcohol, high-fives and talking loudly will also be banned. 'Situation still dire' Japan has largely avoided the kind of explosive coronavirus outbreaks that have devastated other countries, but its vaccine roll-out was initially slow and the medical system has been pushed to the brink in some places. On Thursday, advisers to the Tokyo metropolitan government warned that people were moving around more after the government lifted a state of emergency in the capital and elsewhere this week, and that could cause infections to creep up. The medical system remained stretched to the limit as health workers were also busy vaccinating the public, one expert said. They also warned of signs that more infectious variants could spread rapidly in the coming weeks and months. "Although we're now in a 'quasi' state of emergency, the situation is still very dire," Tokyo Vice Governor Mitsuchika Tarao told reporters, standing in for Governor Yuriko Koike, who was hospitalised this week to recover from fatigue. Also read | Uganda Olympic team member tests positive on arrival in Japan Underscoring such concerns, a second member of the Ugandan team tested positive for the coronavirus on Wednesday, several days after the team member had tested negative upon arrival in Japan. Earlier in the week, the World Health Organization's head of emergencies programme, Mike Ryan, noted that infection rates in Japan had been falling, and said they compared favourably to other countries that were hosting big events.

Japanese emperor 'appears concerned' about COVID-19 spread in Olympics

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Who is accountable if the COVID-19 virus spreads?

With 30 days to go until the start of an Olympic Games dogged&nbsp;by the coronavirus pandemic and by controversy, Tokyo Olympics organisers decided on Wednesday against selling alcohol at venues while defending plans to allow thousands of spectators. 
 
Organisers have pushed ahead with preparations for the Games, postponed from 2020 because of the pandemic, despite strong concerns among the Japanese public that hosting delegations from across the globe could result in further COVID-19 outbreaks. 
 
Media reports that organisers were considering allowing alcohol consumption in Olympics venues provoked a public outcry earlier this week, with the hashtag "cancel&nbsp;the Olympic Games" garnering tens of thousands of tweets. 
 
"Following experts` advice, the organising committee decided against selling and drinking alcohol drinks at the venues so as to prevent spread of infections," Tokyo Olympics President Seiko Hashimoto told reporters, adding that sponsor Asahi Breweries agreed&nbsp;with the decision to ban alcohol sales. 
 
Alcohol sales have been restricted in and around Tokyo after health officials warned drinking would encourage close contact, loud speaking and mingling in bars that could help spread the virus. 
 
Earlier, Hashimoto defended the organisers` decision to allow spectators into Olympic venues. 
 
Japanese medical experts have said banning spectators was the least risky option but also included recommendations on how best to host the Games if spectators were admitted. 
 
Organisers said on Monday up to 10,000 domestic spectators would be allowed into venues. Foreign visitors are banned. 
 
"We decided that it would be better to do the best preparations we can for a Games with spectators," Hashimoto said at a media roundtable attended by Reuters on Tuesday, saying the decision was in line with the medical experts` recommendations. 
 
"Of course, I understand that holding the event without spectators would lower the risk, but there is evidence that there have been no clusters at other events and tournaments," Hashimoto said. 
 
LIMITING CELEBRATIONS 
 
Organisers said on Wednesday they would decide on whether to allow spectators at night sessions, taking infections into account, by July 12 when virus curbs are due to be lifted in Tokyo and some other areas. 
 
Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has still not ruled out holding the Games without spectators if Tokyo is put back under a state of emergency, from which it only emerged on June 21. The Games` opening ceremony is set for July 23. 
 
"The major challenge at the Tokyo Games is to curb a flow of people and limit a sense of celebration," Hashimoto said on Wednesday. "We are striving to make the Tokyo Games safe and secure, so it won`t be full of celebration." 
 
Many Japanese remain sceptical about the possibility of holding even a scaled-down Games safely during a pandemic. 
 
In another blow to organisers` pledge that the Games will be safe, a member of the Ugandan delegation who arrived in Japan on the weekend tested positive for coronavirus despite having been vaccinated and testing negative for COVID-19 before arrival. 
 
The nine-strong delegation cancelled their plans to train and are currently quarantining in a hotel, local media reported. 
 
Hashimoto said the incident was proof of the effectiveness of the coronavirus measures in place. 
 
"We were able to identify this person at the border precisely because we have the proper border measures in place," she said. 
 
But the arduous preparations for the Olympics also appeared to have taken its toll on organisers. 
 
Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike was hospitalised on Tuesday after the metropolitan government said she would take the rest of the week off due to fatigue.

With 30 days to go until the start of an Olympic Games dogged by the coronavirus pandemic and by controversy, Tokyo Olympics organisers decided on Wednesday against selling alcohol at venues while defending plans to allow thousands of spectators.

With 30 days to go until the start of an Olympic Games dogged by the coronavirus pandemic and by controversy, Tokyo Olympics organisers decided on Wednesday against selling alcohol at venues while defending plans to allow thousands of spectators. Organisers have pushed ahead with preparations for the Games, postponed from 2020 because of the pandemic, despite strong concerns among the Japanese public that hosting delegations from across the globe could result in further COVID-19 outbreaks. Media reports that organisers were considering allowing alcohol consumption in Olympics venues provoked a public outcry earlier this week, with the hashtag "cancel the Olympic Games" garnering tens of thousands of tweets. "Following experts` advice, the organising committee decided against selling and drinking alcohol drinks at the venues so as to prevent spread of infections," Tokyo Olympics President Seiko Hashimoto told reporters, adding that sponsor Asahi Breweries agreed with the decision to ban alcohol sales. Alcohol sales have been restricted in and around Tokyo after health officials warned drinking would encourage close contact, loud speaking and mingling in bars that could help spread the virus. Earlier, Hashimoto defended the organisers` decision to allow spectators into Olympic venues. Japanese medical experts have said banning spectators was the least risky option but also included recommendations on how best to host the Games if spectators were admitted. Organisers said on Monday up to 10,000 domestic spectators would be allowed into venues. Foreign visitors are banned. "We decided that it would be better to do the best preparations we can for a Games with spectators," Hashimoto said at a media roundtable attended by Reuters on Tuesday, saying the decision was in line with the medical experts` recommendations. "Of course, I understand that holding the event without spectators would lower the risk, but there is evidence that there have been no clusters at other events and tournaments," Hashimoto said. LIMITING CELEBRATIONS Organisers said on Wednesday they would decide on whether to allow spectators at night sessions, taking infections into account, by July 12 when virus curbs are due to be lifted in Tokyo and some other areas. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has still not ruled out holding the Games without spectators if Tokyo is put back under a state of emergency, from which it only emerged on June 21. The Games` opening ceremony is set for July 23. "The major challenge at the Tokyo Games is to curb a flow of people and limit a sense of celebration," Hashimoto said on Wednesday. "We are striving to make the Tokyo Games safe and secure, so it won`t be full of celebration." Many Japanese remain sceptical about the possibility of holding even a scaled-down Games safely during a pandemic. In another blow to organisers` pledge that the Games will be safe, a member of the Ugandan delegation who arrived in Japan on the weekend tested positive for coronavirus despite having been vaccinated and testing negative for COVID-19 before arrival. The nine-strong delegation cancelled their plans to train and are currently quarantining in a hotel, local media reported. Hashimoto said the incident was proof of the effectiveness of the coronavirus measures in place. "We were able to identify this person at the border precisely because we have the proper border measures in place," she said. But the arduous preparations for the Olympics also appeared to have taken its toll on organisers. Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike was hospitalised on Tuesday after the metropolitan government said she would take the rest of the week off due to fatigue.

Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators

A Ugandan Olympic coach has tested positive for the Wuhan virus, even after vaccination. India says the Olympic rules are highly unfair for Indian athletes. With the opposition within Japan growing, will the Olympics be cancelled again? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ugandan Olympic coach tests positive for Wuhan virus after vaccination

43-year-old weightlifter Laurel Hubbard will create history by becoming the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympics Games after New Zealand picked her for participating in the women’s team at Tokyo 2021.

New Zealand picks first transgender athlete for Olympics

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said.

The first group to arrive from Uganda -- a nine-strong party, including boxers, coaches and officials -- landed at Tokyo's Narita airport on Saturday. They are the second team to arrive after Australia women's softball squad on June 1.

But one of the African nation's delegation tested positive during screening at the airport, a government official told reporters. The person tested twice but their condition remained unknown, reported local media.

"I heard the person has been isolated based on regulations," Hidemasa Nakamura, the Tokyo 2020 Games delivery officer, told reporters, renewing a pledge to take strict measures against infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elects-new-president-mixed-reactions-across-world-392652">Also Read |&nbsp;Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world</a>

Public broadcaster NHK said the group had all been vaccinated and tested negative in Uganda before they came to Japan.

The team was originally due to have arrived in Japan on June 16, but their flight was cancelled following a surge in Covid-19 cases in Uganda, local media said.

The other members of the Ugandan party have already left the airport for Osaka, western Japan, where they will train ahead of the Games.

This was the first case showing positive Covid test results among Olympic arrivals from overseas, local media said.

Last week organisers released virus guidelines for athletes as part of their effort to hold the Games safely even though the pandemic has not yet been brought under control.

Organisers said they would meet on Monday to discuss how many domestic spectators to allow, if any, with reports suggesting they would opt for a cap of 10,000 people.

Nippon Television said organisers were considering setting the upper limit of spectators, including guests and officials, at 20,000 for the July 23 opening ceremony.

Fans from abroad are already banned from attending the postponed event.

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said.

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said. The first group to arrive from Uganda -- a nine-strong party, including boxers, coaches and officials -- landed at Tokyo's Narita airport on Saturday. They are the second team to arrive after Australia women's softball squad on June 1. But one of the African nation's delegation tested positive during screening at the airport, a government official told reporters. The person tested twice but their condition remained unknown, reported local media. "I heard the person has been isolated based on regulations," Hidemasa Nakamura, the Tokyo 2020 Games delivery officer, told reporters, renewing a pledge to take strict measures against infections. Also Read | Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world Public broadcaster NHK said the group had all been vaccinated and tested negative in Uganda before they came to Japan. The team was originally due to have arrived in Japan on June 16, but their flight was cancelled following a surge in Covid-19 cases in Uganda, local media said. The other members of the Ugandan party have already left the airport for Osaka, western Japan, where they will train ahead of the Games. This was the first case showing positive Covid test results among Olympic arrivals from overseas, local media said. Last week organisers released virus guidelines for athletes as part of their effort to hold the Games safely even though the pandemic has not yet been brought under control. Organisers said they would meet on Monday to discuss how many domestic spectators to allow, if any, with reports suggesting they would opt for a cap of 10,000 people. Nippon Television said organisers were considering setting the upper limit of spectators, including guests and officials, at 20,000 for the July 23 opening ceremony. Fans from abroad are already banned from attending the postponed event.

Uganda Olympic team member tests positive on arrival in Japan

India's envoy to Japan Sanjay Verma has said that Indo Pacific vision is the 'new currency' even as he listed out how Quad is a grouping of 'convergence of principles'. Japan, along with India, US and Australia are members of the Quad grouping and back the Indo Pacific vision that geographically sees Indian and Pacific oceans as one unit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to a question, Sanjay Verma speaking at Foreign&nbsp;Correspondents&nbsp;Club of Japan, said, "There is no conflict between the concept of Indo Pacific and Asia Pacific, which is an old concept. In fact, Indo Pacific has become the new currency, as compared to the old currency, which used to be Asia Pacific. Indo Pacific replaces Asia Pacific."&nbsp;&nbsp;

He explained that the Indo Pacific vision is shared by 'many countries' and groupings like ASEAN and 'many countries beyond Asia, which also share' the vision like the US and Australia. Indo Pacific is a region seen from eastern shores of Africa to the western coast of the US and a region driving the world's economy and hosting a large portion of world's population.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Asked about Quad, and India aligning itself to specific groups, Verma highlighted that, "Quad doesn't force us to leave or give up our independent foreign policy. It is autonomous and completely independent. It doesn't preclude the convergence of principles."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Adding, "Quad has certain principles, which have convergence and&nbsp;reverbrance&nbsp;with the Indian foreign policy ethos and that is very much there."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, this year saw the first-ever Quad leadership summit virtually in which leaders of all four member countries participated. Later, this year could see, first-ever in-person summit. While the Quad's history goes back to the aftermath of the 2004 Indian ocean Tsunami when these four countries worked together, but it is only in the last few years that the pace of regular engagement has increased.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"In Quad, the countries, which have come together, follow principles like democracy”, envoy pointed out, saying "there is dialogue and deliverables coming out of quad and I don't see quad going against the philosophy and principle of having an independent foreign policy by a country."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The emergence of groupings like Quad and Indo Pacific vision come at a time when world and Asia has seen an increase in Chinese aggressiveness. China has been aggressive with all four Quad countries, with India it has been creating troubles at LAC in Eastern Ladakh, with Japan over Senkaku islands, with Australia there have been trade issues and with US, from trade to Taiwan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian envoy also spoke on Tokyo Olympics which Japan will be hosting next month, saying "our athletes are early waiting to come and join the event and try to do the best they can in the sporting event."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Olympics were to take place last year but got postponed due to the Covid crisis. This year, the Olympics are taking place amid heightened protocols to deal with the Covid virus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Verma said, "The Olympics should generally be held on time so that athletes, who would participate, do not get disappointed", elaborating that "It is a global event, for which the world waits for four years and therefore, our view is that, with safety is of paramount importance. There cannot be a compromise with health issues. Neither for the athletes, nor for visitors or Japanese residents."&nbsp;&nbsp;

So far, 140 Indian athletes are confirmed to go to Japan for the Olympics. The number can increase as many qualifying events remain.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Expressing confidence on smooth Olympics, the envoy said, "Olympics should go ahead and I am sure, given the precautions taken by the Japanese govt and Japanese Olympic committee, we do not foresee any difficulty in going ahead with the event."&nbsp;

India's envoy to Japan Sanjay Verma has said that Indo Pacific vision is the 'new currency' even as he listed out how Quad is a grouping of 'convergence of principles'.

India's envoy to Japan Sanjay Verma has said that Indo Pacific vision is the 'new currency' even as he listed out how Quad is a grouping of 'convergence of principles'. Japan, along with India, US and Australia are members of the Quad grouping and back the Indo Pacific vision that geographically sees Indian and Pacific oceans as one unit. In response to a question, Sanjay Verma speaking at Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan, said, "There is no conflict between the concept of Indo Pacific and Asia Pacific, which is an old concept. In fact, Indo Pacific has become the new currency, as compared to the old currency, which used to be Asia Pacific. Indo Pacific replaces Asia Pacific." He explained that the Indo Pacific vision is shared by 'many countries' and groupings like ASEAN and 'many countries beyond Asia, which also share' the vision like the US and Australia. Indo Pacific is a region seen from eastern shores of Africa to the western coast of the US and a region driving the world's economy and hosting a large portion of world's population. Asked about Quad, and India aligning itself to specific groups, Verma highlighted that, "Quad doesn't force us to leave or give up our independent foreign policy. It is autonomous and completely independent. It doesn't preclude the convergence of principles." Adding, "Quad has certain principles, which have convergence and reverbrance with the Indian foreign policy ethos and that is very much there." Earlier, this year saw the first-ever Quad leadership summit virtually in which leaders of all four member countries participated. Later, this year could see, first-ever in-person summit. While the Quad's history goes back to the aftermath of the 2004 Indian ocean Tsunami when these four countries worked together, but it is only in the last few years that the pace of regular engagement has increased. "In Quad, the countries, which have come together, follow principles like democracy”, envoy pointed out, saying "there is dialogue and deliverables coming out of quad and I don't see quad going against the philosophy and principle of having an independent foreign policy by a country." The emergence of groupings like Quad and Indo Pacific vision come at a time when world and Asia has seen an increase in Chinese aggressiveness. China has been aggressive with all four Quad countries, with India it has been creating troubles at LAC in Eastern Ladakh, with Japan over Senkaku islands, with Australia there have been trade issues and with US, from trade to Taiwan. The Indian envoy also spoke on Tokyo Olympics which Japan will be hosting next month, saying "our athletes are early waiting to come and join the event and try to do the best they can in the sporting event." The Olympics were to take place last year but got postponed due to the Covid crisis. This year, the Olympics are taking place amid heightened protocols to deal with the Covid virus. Verma said, "The Olympics should generally be held on time so that athletes, who would participate, do not get disappointed", elaborating that "It is a global event, for which the world waits for four years and therefore, our view is that, with safety is of paramount importance. There cannot be a compromise with health issues. Neither for the athletes, nor for visitors or Japanese residents." So far, 140 Indian athletes are confirmed to go to Japan for the Olympics. The number can increase as many qualifying events remain. Expressing confidence on smooth Olympics, the envoy said, "Olympics should go ahead and I am sure, given the precautions taken by the Japanese govt and Japanese Olympic committee, we do not foresee any difficulty in going ahead with the event."

Indo Pacific is new currency, says Indian envoy to Japan Sanjay Verma; Backs Tokyo Olympics 

Japan is set to outline how it will lift its "state of emergency" curbs while keeping some restrictions, including spectator numbers at big events, amid fears that next month's Olympics could trigger a new wave of coronavirus infections.

Media reports say the government is considering allowing up to 10,000 spectators into stadiums during the Games, in line with a plan endorsed by health experts&nbsp;on Wednesday for local events.

Later on Thursday, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is due to announce a decision on the state of emergency for Tokyo, Osaka and seven other prefectures, which expires on June 20.

Instead of removing all lockdown measures, the government is seeking to call a "quasi-emergency" in seven of those prefectures, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said on Thursday, meaning some curbs will remain in place.

The southern island prefecture Okinawa, currently battling a surge in infections, is widely expected to remain in a state of emergency.

The one-notch easing of the emergency restrictions would come just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics, delayed last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, is due to start on July 23.

To avoid a resurgence of the pandemic, Japan, which is due to decide this month on whether to allow domestic spectators at the Games, will likely keep restrictions on the flow of people, including the Olympics.

Health experts including top medical adviser Shigeru Omi on Wednesday agreed with a government plan that would permit up to 10,000 spectators or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is smaller, at events, under certain conditions.

The Mainichi and other media reported the government was aiming to allow spectators into the Games, using the 10,000 cap. A decision on the maximum number of spectators for the Olympics is due by the end of the month.

Polls have shown most Japanese remain wary of the Games, particularly as vaccination rates are still lower than in other wealthy nations.

Omi previously called on the government to better explain to the public how it expects to prevent infections while hosting the Games.

Public broadcaster NHK said on Thursday that Omi and other health experts had compiled proposals for the Games. The proposals will state that banning live spectators will be the least risky way method and that if spectators are to be allowed, there should be more restrictions than those applied to other large-scale events.

Japan is set to outline how it will lift its "state of emergency" curbs while keeping some restrictions, including spectator numbers at big events, amid fears that next month's Olympics could trigger a new wave of coronavirus infections.

Japan is set to outline how it will lift its "state of emergency" curbs while keeping some restrictions, including spectator numbers at big events, amid fears that next month's Olympics could trigger a new wave of coronavirus infections. Media reports say the government is considering allowing up to 10,000 spectators into stadiums during the Games, in line with a plan endorsed by health experts on Wednesday for local events. Later on Thursday, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is due to announce a decision on the state of emergency for Tokyo, Osaka and seven other prefectures, which expires on June 20. Instead of removing all lockdown measures, the government is seeking to call a "quasi-emergency" in seven of those prefectures, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said on Thursday, meaning some curbs will remain in place. The southern island prefecture Okinawa, currently battling a surge in infections, is widely expected to remain in a state of emergency. The one-notch easing of the emergency restrictions would come just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics, delayed last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, is due to start on July 23. To avoid a resurgence of the pandemic, Japan, which is due to decide this month on whether to allow domestic spectators at the Games, will likely keep restrictions on the flow of people, including the Olympics. Health experts including top medical adviser Shigeru Omi on Wednesday agreed with a government plan that would permit up to 10,000 spectators or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is smaller, at events, under certain conditions. The Mainichi and other media reported the government was aiming to allow spectators into the Games, using the 10,000 cap. A decision on the maximum number of spectators for the Olympics is due by the end of the month. Polls have shown most Japanese remain wary of the Games, particularly as vaccination rates are still lower than in other wealthy nations. Omi previously called on the government to better explain to the public how it expects to prevent infections while hosting the Games. Public broadcaster NHK said on Thursday that Omi and other health experts had compiled proposals for the Games. The proposals will state that banning live spectators will be the least risky way method and that if spectators are to be allowed, there should be more restrictions than those applied to other large-scale events.

Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">Tokyo Olympics</a> but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events.

The state of emergency in place in Tokyo began in late April and largely limits bar and restaurant opening hours and bans them from selling alcohol.

That measure will now end in the capital and eight other regions on June 20, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced. It will stay in place in Okinawa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-japan-to-ease-state-of-emergency-focus-on-games-spectators-392069">Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators</a>

"The number of infections nationwide has been declining since mid-May and the situation in terms of hospital beds is steadily improving," he said.

"On the other hand, in some regions, there are signs that the fall in the number of infections is slowing," Suga added.

In place of the emergency, the government will implement so-called "quasi-emergency" measures in Tokyo and six other areas until July 11.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-agree-to-ease-emergency-curbs-in-tokyo-but-warn-of-risks-govt-392060">Experts agree to ease emergency curbs in Tokyo but warn of risks: Govt</a>

The measures will slightly relax the rules on alcohol, allowing sales until 7 pm, but still asks restaurants and bars to shut at 8 pm.

Crucially, with just five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open, strict limits will remain on the number of spectators allowed at large events.

The current state of emergency allows only 5,000 people or 50 per cent of venue capacity, whichever is smaller. And on Wednesday, the government approved an upper limit of 10,000 spectators, but only for areas not under any restrictions.

Those rules are likely to guide Olympic organisers when they decide in the coming days how many domestic fans, if any, will be allowed to attend.

Overseas fans have already been banned from the Games for the first time, and organisers said they would wait to rule on domestic spectators until the emergency was lifted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-overseas-reporters-movement-to-be-tracked-by-gps-as-japan-gears-up-for-games-390190">Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games</a>

The issue is controversial. While cases in Japan have fallen from their fourth wave peak, some medical professionals fear that crowds of Olympic spectators could fan a new surge.

A report expected soon from some of the government's top medical advisers will argue holding the Games without fans would be safest, national broadcaster NHK said Thursday.

The experts will urge that additional rules are imposed if spectators are allowed, NHK said.

'Respond flexibly'&nbsp;

Suga noted that professional baseball and football games have continued with limited spectators throughout the emergency "and there have been few clusters".

But he also warned that measures could be tightened if the situation worsens.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/half-of-japanese-predict-olympics-will-happen-this-year-poll-shows-389920">Half of Japanese predict Olympics will happen this year, poll shows</a>

"If there are signs that the medical system is stretched because of another expansion (of infections), we will respond flexibly, including by reinforcing measures," he told a news conference.

Japan has seen a comparatively small virus outbreak, with slightly over 14,000 deaths while avoiding harsh lockdowns.

Just over six per cent of the population is fully vaccinated so far.

Given the likely restrictions, Olympic organisers have given up on selling any more tickets and are weighing a lottery system to determine which ticketholders will be able to attend events, the Kyodo news agency reported.

Millions of tickets were sold in Japan last year before the postponement, and while several hundred thousand applications for refunds were processed after the Games were postponed, the number of ticketholders is still likely to exceed any spectator caps at many events.

With just over a month until the Games open, organisers are attempting to build confidence that the biggest international event since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">pandemic</a> began will be safe for participants and the public.

Newly updated virus rulebooks released this week warn athletes they could be expelled from the Games if they violate requirements like mask-wearing and daily testing.

Organisers say more than 80 per cent of athletes will be vaccinated and they will be barred from interacting with the Japanese public.

Recent polls have suggested a slight shift in public opposition to holding the Games, with more now in favour of it going ahead than cancelling it.

Previous surveys that offered postponement as an option tended to show most Japanese preferred either another delay or cancellation.

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events.

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events. The state of emergency in place in Tokyo began in late April and largely limits bar and restaurant opening hours and bans them from selling alcohol. That measure will now end in the capital and eight other regions on June 20, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced. It will stay in place in Okinawa. Also read | Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators "The number of infections nationwide has been declining since mid-May and the situation in terms of hospital beds is steadily improving," he said. "On the other hand, in some regions, there are signs that the fall in the number of infections is slowing," Suga added. In place of the emergency, the government will implement so-called "quasi-emergency" measures in Tokyo and six other areas until July 11. Also read | Experts agree to ease emergency curbs in Tokyo but warn of risks: Govt The measures will slightly relax the rules on alcohol, allowing sales until 7 pm, but still asks restaurants and bars to shut at 8 pm. Crucially, with just five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open, strict limits will remain on the number of spectators allowed at large events. The current state of emergency allows only 5,000 people or 50 per cent of venue capacity, whichever is smaller. And on Wednesday, the government approved an upper limit of 10,000 spectators, but only for areas not under any restrictions. Those rules are likely to guide Olympic organisers when they decide in the coming days how many domestic fans, if any, will be allowed to attend. Overseas fans have already been banned from the Games for the first time, and organisers said they would wait to rule on domestic spectators until the emergency was lifted. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games The issue is controversial. While cases in Japan have fallen from their fourth wave peak, some medical professionals fear that crowds of Olympic spectators could fan a new surge. A report expected soon from some of the government's top medical advisers will argue holding the Games without fans would be safest, national broadcaster NHK said Thursday. The experts will urge that additional rules are imposed if spectators are allowed, NHK said. 'Respond flexibly' Suga noted that professional baseball and football games have continued with limited spectators throughout the emergency "and there have been few clusters". But he also warned that measures could be tightened if the situation worsens. Also read | Half of Japanese predict Olympics will happen this year, poll shows "If there are signs that the medical system is stretched because of another expansion (of infections), we will respond flexibly, including by reinforcing measures," he told a news conference. Japan has seen a comparatively small virus outbreak, with slightly over 14,000 deaths while avoiding harsh lockdowns. Just over six per cent of the population is fully vaccinated so far. Given the likely restrictions, Olympic organisers have given up on selling any more tickets and are weighing a lottery system to determine which ticketholders will be able to attend events, the Kyodo news agency reported. Millions of tickets were sold in Japan last year before the postponement, and while several hundred thousand applications for refunds were processed after the Games were postponed, the number of ticketholders is still likely to exceed any spectator caps at many events. With just over a month until the Games open, organisers are attempting to build confidence that the biggest international event since the pandemic began will be safe for participants and the public. Newly updated virus rulebooks released this week warn athletes they could be expelled from the Games if they violate requirements like mask-wearing and daily testing. Organisers say more than 80 per cent of athletes will be vaccinated and they will be barred from interacting with the Japanese public. Recent polls have suggested a slight shift in public opposition to holding the Games, with more now in favour of it going ahead than cancelling it. Previous surveys that offered postponement as an option tended to show most Japanese preferred either another delay or cancellation.

Japan ending Tokyo virus emergency one month before Olympics

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