Organisers of Tokyo 2020 have unveiled a rulebook for the athletes participating in the virus-postponed summer games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-organisers-to-hold-meeting-this-week-over-moris-sexist-remarks-reports-362344" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 organisers to hold meeting this week over Mori's sexist remarks: Reports</a>

The 33-page rulebook has been launched to ensure a safe Olympics that is set to commence on July 23. &nbsp;The rulebook warns the players to not socialise, avoid handshakes and not hug, in short, "avoid unnecessary forms of physical contact" — especially for those living in the Olympic Village.&nbsp;

Their time in Japan will be "minimised to reduce the risk of infection."

According to the guidelines, athletes will be tested for the virus at least once every four days and will be barred from competing if they return a confirmed positive test. They also warned that the athletes could be kicked out of their events if they break strict anti-virus rules.

Organisers told AFP on Tuesday that they still plan to hand out around 150,000 free condoms to athletes, but the new rulebook urges them to "limit your contact with other people as much as possible."

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"If you have been to the Games before, we know this experience will be different in a number of ways," the guidebook warns.

"For all Games participants, there will be some conditions and constraints that will require your flexibility and understanding."

The guidelines for athletes and team officials will be revised once in April and again in July.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/economy-to-values-tokyo-olympics-highlight-stark-difference-from-1964-to-2021-358853" hreflang="en">Economy to values: Tokyo Olympics highlight stark difference from 1964 to 2021</a>

The guidelines emphasise on virus-testing as they urge the players to get tested within 72 hours of travelling to Japan and again immediately upon arrival.

The rulebook also said that there will be no quarantine for athletes, and they will still be allowed to attend training camps in Japan before the Games begin.

Athletes "must not visit gyms, tourist areas, shops, restaurants or bars" and can only go to "official Games venues and limited additional locations".

These athletes will have to wear masks at all times except when they are competing, training, eating, sleeping or outside in open space.

Organisers of Tokyo 2020 have unveiled a rulebook for the athletes participating in the virus-postponed summer games. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 organisers to hold meeting this week over Mori's sexist remarks: Reports The 33-page rulebook has been launched to ensure a safe Olympics that is set to commence on July 23.

Organisers of Tokyo 2020 have unveiled a rulebook for the athletes participating in the virus-postponed summer games. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 organisers to hold meeting this week over Mori's sexist remarks: Reports The 33-page rulebook has been launched to ensure a safe Olympics that is set to commence on July 23. The rulebook warns the players to not socialise, avoid handshakes and not hug, in short, "avoid unnecessary forms of physical contact" — especially for those living in the Olympic Village. Their time in Japan will be "minimised to reduce the risk of infection." According to the guidelines, athletes will be tested for the virus at least once every four days and will be barred from competing if they return a confirmed positive test. They also warned that the athletes could be kicked out of their events if they break strict anti-virus rules. Organisers told AFP on Tuesday that they still plan to hand out around 150,000 free condoms to athletes, but the new rulebook urges them to "limit your contact with other people as much as possible." ALSO READ: 'It remains to be seen...': US President Joe Biden opines on 2020 Tokyo Olympics "If you have been to the Games before, we know this experience will be different in a number of ways," the guidebook warns. "For all Games participants, there will be some conditions and constraints that will require your flexibility and understanding." The guidelines for athletes and team officials will be revised once in April and again in July. ALSO SEE: Economy to values: Tokyo Olympics highlight stark difference from 1964 to 2021 The guidelines emphasise on virus-testing as they urge the players to get tested within 72 hours of travelling to Japan and again immediately upon arrival. The rulebook also said that there will be no quarantine for athletes, and they will still be allowed to attend training camps in Japan before the Games begin. Athletes "must not visit gyms, tourist areas, shops, restaurants or bars" and can only go to "official Games venues and limited additional locations". These athletes will have to wear masks at all times except when they are competing, training, eating, sleeping or outside in open space.

From no hugs to 150,000 condoms: Here are the details of athlete rulebook for Tokyo 2020

Around 60 per cent of respondents in a major Japanese poll on Sunday feel that Yoshiro Mori should no longer be as Tokyo 2020 chief after stirring massive controversy over sexist remarks.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-ace-naomi-osaka-calls-mori-ignorant-over-sexist-remarks-361827" hreflang="en">Japanese ace Naomi Osaka calls Mori 'ignorant' over sexist remarks</a>

Earlier this week, Former Japanese Prime Minister Mori said that women talked for too long in meetings. These remarks stirred massive controversies across the globe. The 83-year-old retracted and apologised for the comments he had made in a meeting with the Japan Olympic Committee but refused calls to resign.&nbsp;

According to the International Olympic Association, the matter is closed. However, a nationwide survey was conducted by Kyodo News Agency where over a thousand people responded. 59.9 per cent of respondents said they did not think the 83-year-old former prime minister was fit to serve as head of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.&nbsp;

Only 6.8 per cent said he should stay in the role, while the agency did not say how the remaining 33.3 per cent answered.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-naomi-osaka-to-sofia-kenin-here-are-five-women-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-361564" hreflang="en">From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open</a>

On Friday, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike reacted to Mori's remarks and said that she was "speechless". On Saturday, Japanese tennis superstar Naomi Osaka slammed the remarks as "ignorant".

"I did look at the comments. I didn't think they were good," Osaka told a news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, which starts on Monday.

Around 60 per cent of respondents in a major Japanese poll on Sunday feel that Yoshiro Mori should no longer be as Tokyo 2020 chief after stirring massive controversy over sexist remarks.

Around 60 per cent of respondents in a major Japanese poll on Sunday feel that Yoshiro Mori should no longer be as Tokyo 2020 chief after stirring massive controversy over sexist remarks. ALSO READ: Japanese ace Naomi Osaka calls Mori 'ignorant' over sexist remarks Earlier this week, Former Japanese Prime Minister Mori said that women talked for too long in meetings. These remarks stirred massive controversies across the globe. The 83-year-old retracted and apologised for the comments he had made in a meeting with the Japan Olympic Committee but refused calls to resign. According to the International Olympic Association, the matter is closed. However, a nationwide survey was conducted by Kyodo News Agency where over a thousand people responded. 59.9 per cent of respondents said they did not think the 83-year-old former prime minister was fit to serve as head of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Only 6.8 per cent said he should stay in the role, while the agency did not say how the remaining 33.3 per cent answered. ALSO SEE: From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open On Friday, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike reacted to Mori's remarks and said that she was "speechless". On Saturday, Japanese tennis superstar Naomi Osaka slammed the remarks as "ignorant". "I did look at the comments. I didn't think they were good," Osaka told a news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, which starts on Monday.

60 percent say Yoshiro Mori unfit to serve as Tokyo 2020 chief: Japan poll

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Friday called Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori "ignorant", however, she maintained silence on calls of his resignation.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-naomi-osaka-to-sofia-kenin-here-are-five-women-to-watch-at-the-australian-open-361564" hreflang="en">From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open</a>

Former Japanese Prime Minister Mori, this week, said that women talked for too long in meetings. These remarks stirred massive controversies across the globe. The 83-year-old retracted and apologised for the comments he had made in a meeting with the Japan Olympic Committee but refused calls to resign.

"I did look at the comments. I didn't think they were good," Osaka told a news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, which starts on Monday.

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/economy-to-values-tokyo-olympics-highlight-stark-difference-from-1964-to-2021-358853" hreflang="en">Economy to values: Tokyo Olympics highlight stark difference from 1964 to 2021</a>

She said she wanted to hear the reasoning behind the remarks and the perspective of those around Mori.

"I think if you're in a position like that, you really should think before you say anything. I don't know in what situation he said those things, but I think it's really uninformed and a bit ignorant."

Osaka has been the poster girl of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which were delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She went on to become first Asian player to be ranked world number one. She spoke on several issues during the Black Lives Matter protests.&nbsp;

"I'm a tennis player - what an interesting subject matter to be thrown," Osaka said when asked to elaborate on Mori's comments. "Do I think he should resign?

"I think someone that makes comments like that, they need to have more knowledge on the thing that they're talking about. I'm not sure if it's a situation where someone should demand that he resigns or if it's just something that people need to make him understand that what he said wasn't right."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Friday called Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori "ignorant", however, she maintained silence on calls of his resignation. ALSO SEE: From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open Former Japanese Prime Minister Mori, this week, said that women talked for too long in meetings.

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Friday called Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori "ignorant", however, she maintained silence on calls of his resignation. ALSO SEE: From Naomi Osaka to Sofia Kenin: Here are five women to watch at the Australian Open Former Japanese Prime Minister Mori, this week, said that women talked for too long in meetings. These remarks stirred massive controversies across the globe. The 83-year-old retracted and apologised for the comments he had made in a meeting with the Japan Olympic Committee but refused calls to resign. "I did look at the comments. I didn't think they were good," Osaka told a news conference in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Open, which starts on Monday. ALSO SEE: Economy to values: Tokyo Olympics highlight stark difference from 1964 to 2021 She said she wanted to hear the reasoning behind the remarks and the perspective of those around Mori. "I think if you're in a position like that, you really should think before you say anything. I don't know in what situation he said those things, but I think it's really uninformed and a bit ignorant." Osaka has been the poster girl of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which were delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She went on to become first Asian player to be ranked world number one. She spoke on several issues during the Black Lives Matter protests. "I'm a tennis player - what an interesting subject matter to be thrown," Osaka said when asked to elaborate on Mori's comments. "Do I think he should resign? "I think someone that makes comments like that, they need to have more knowledge on the thing that they're talking about. I'm not sure if it's a situation where someone should demand that he resigns or if it's just something that people need to make him understand that what he said wasn't right." (Inputs from Reuters)

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka calls Mori 'ignorant' over sexist remarks

Tokyo 2020 President Yoshiro Mori has refused to resign over his sexist comments. WION's Palki Sharma asks - Is there a sexism epidemic in Japan?

Gravitas: Tokyo 2020 President refuses to resign

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Sunday said that she would be willing to go through another two weeks of quarantine to play at the Tokyo Olympics later this year if it helped ensure the safety of the people of her home country.

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"The way that I feel is I will stay in my room for two weeks to play the Olympics," the 23-year-old told reporters on Sunday.

"I missed out on the last one. Playing in Tokyo would be very special to me. My concern would be the general safety of everyone else because you're opening the country.

"Everyone is flying in from different places. I would just want the public to feel safe. I feel like the athletes definitely would want to play, but I would want the public to feel safe."

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US Open champion Osaka also said that she was looking forward to getting a decent amount of match practice this week in the Gippsland Trophy, which is a warm-up tournament at Melbourne Park.&nbsp;

"I'm actually really happy," she said. "For me, I like it's being held at the same spot. I know normally we don't get that sort of luxury."

Osaka also talked about fans, who will be attending the year's first Grand Slam that will kick off on February 8, however, she also talked about its downside.&nbsp;

"I think I get distracted by the crowd sometimes because I want to show off a little bit, so I do some crazy shots," she said.

"(But) I would say I definitely love having a crowd watching. I feel like you sort of interact with them. Sometimes they shout things and it makes you laugh."

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Sunday said that she would be willing to go through another two weeks of quarantine to play at the Tokyo Olympics later this year if it helped ensure the safety of the people of her home country.

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka on Sunday said that she would be willing to go through another two weeks of quarantine to play at the Tokyo Olympics later this year if it helped ensure the safety of the people of her home country. ALSO READ: 'I'm not going to lie. I didn't miss the game that much': Nick Kyrgios "The way that I feel is I will stay in my room for two weeks to play the Olympics," the 23-year-old told reporters on Sunday. "I missed out on the last one. Playing in Tokyo would be very special to me. My concern would be the general safety of everyone else because you're opening the country. "Everyone is flying in from different places. I would just want the public to feel safe. I feel like the athletes definitely would want to play, but I would want the public to feel safe." ALSO READ: Rohan Bopanna finds new doubles' partner ahead of Australian Open US Open champion Osaka also said that she was looking forward to getting a decent amount of match practice this week in the Gippsland Trophy, which is a warm-up tournament at Melbourne Park. "I'm actually really happy," she said. "For me, I like it's being held at the same spot. I know normally we don't get that sort of luxury." Osaka also talked about fans, who will be attending the year's first Grand Slam that will kick off on February 8, however, she also talked about its downside. "I think I get distracted by the crowd sometimes because I want to show off a little bit, so I do some crazy shots," she said. "(But) I would say I definitely love having a crowd watching. I feel like you sort of interact with them. Sometimes they shout things and it makes you laugh."

Naomi Osaka willing to spend two more weeks in quarantine to play in the Olympics

As embattled Tokyo Olympics organisers enter the final six months of preparations for the delayed Games on Saturday, virus experts believe hosting the world's biggest sporting event may be too big a gamble.

The Olympics are due to start on July 23 but with much of Japan in a state of emergency and growing public opposition, organisers are under increasing pressure.

Japan has been less severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic than many other advanced economies, but a recent surge in cases spurred it to close its borders to non-resident foreigners and declare a state of emergency in Tokyo and major cities.

With 15,000 athletes plus support staff expected to descend on Tokyo for the delayed Olympics and Paralympics Games from all over the world, the Games represent a unique challenge for organisers.

"Do you have to risk that? Risk by holding the Olympic Games? I don’t think so," Kentaro Iwata, a prominent infectious diseases expert from Kobe University told Reuters.

"We are facing far more danger than last year, so why do you have to hold the Olympic Games, cancelled last year due to risk of infections, this year?

Organisers have maintained that postponing the Games for another year is not on the table, leaving complete cancellation or striving ahead as the only options.

Health ministry official Kazuho Taguchi on Wednesday echoed comments from Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga that the government is continuing with preparations as planned.

At this point, the plans are not "conditional" on the public or athletes being vaccinated against COVID-19, Taguchi said.

Cancelling the Games, already set to cost Japanese organisers $15.4 billion, would lead to huge financial losses.

But Iwata, who rose to prominence with videos criticising the quarantine of the Diamond Princess cruise ship in February, doesn't think holding the Games is the solution.

"Is it like the attitude of a bad gambler? The gambler who loses money just pours in (more) money to get it back," he said.

With COVID-19 vaccination rollouts differing country-to-country, whether the Olympics can go ahead "depends on the COVID-19 situation not only in Japan, but also other countries," said Koji Wada, a professor at Tokyo’s International University of Health and Welfare.

Even if the Games go ahead, full-contact sports like judo or wrestling will require more testing and attention to hygiene than other events, said Wada, who advises the government on pandemic response.

The numbers of spectators, athletes and events themselves may have to be curtailed.

"A full-scale Olympics, which we usually have, may not be possible," he said.

Organisers have said a decision on spectators will come in February or March.

As embattled Tokyo Olympics organisers enter the final six months of preparations for the delayed Games on Saturday, virus experts believe hosting the world's biggest sporting event may be too big a gamble.

As embattled Tokyo Olympics organisers enter the final six months of preparations for the delayed Games on Saturday, virus experts believe hosting the world's biggest sporting event may be too big a gamble. The Olympics are due to start on July 23 but with much of Japan in a state of emergency and growing public opposition, organisers are under increasing pressure. Japan has been less severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic than many other advanced economies, but a recent surge in cases spurred it to close its borders to non-resident foreigners and declare a state of emergency in Tokyo and major cities. With 15,000 athletes plus support staff expected to descend on Tokyo for the delayed Olympics and Paralympics Games from all over the world, the Games represent a unique challenge for organisers. "Do you have to risk that? Risk by holding the Olympic Games? I don’t think so," Kentaro Iwata, a prominent infectious diseases expert from Kobe University told Reuters. "We are facing far more danger than last year, so why do you have to hold the Olympic Games, cancelled last year due to risk of infections, this year? Organisers have maintained that postponing the Games for another year is not on the table, leaving complete cancellation or striving ahead as the only options. Health ministry official Kazuho Taguchi on Wednesday echoed comments from Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga that the government is continuing with preparations as planned. At this point, the plans are not "conditional" on the public or athletes being vaccinated against COVID-19, Taguchi said. Cancelling the Games, already set to cost Japanese organisers $15.4 billion, would lead to huge financial losses. But Iwata, who rose to prominence with videos criticising the quarantine of the Diamond Princess cruise ship in February, doesn't think holding the Games is the solution. "Is it like the attitude of a bad gambler? The gambler who loses money just pours in (more) money to get it back," he said. With COVID-19 vaccination rollouts differing country-to-country, whether the Olympics can go ahead "depends on the COVID-19 situation not only in Japan, but also other countries," said Koji Wada, a professor at Tokyo’s International University of Health and Welfare. Even if the Games go ahead, full-contact sports like judo or wrestling will require more testing and attention to hygiene than other events, said Wada, who advises the government on pandemic response. The numbers of spectators, athletes and events themselves may have to be curtailed. "A full-scale Olympics, which we usually have, may not be possible," he said. Organisers have said a decision on spectators will come in February or March.

Tokyo Games may be too big a gamble, disease expert says

Around 80 per cent of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to either be cancelled or delayed after a surge in coronavirus cases in the Asian country, a Kyodo News poll showed on Sunday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iocs-senior-official-says-tokyo-olympics-uncertain-due-to-coronavirus-surge-355388" hreflang="en">IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge</a>

According to the survey, 35.3 per cent want the Games to be cancelled and 44.8 per cent favoured another delay. The Olympics were scheduled to be held last year but was postponed due to coronavirus pandemic and is scheduled to be held between July 23-August 8 in Tokyo.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga declared a state of emergency on greater Tokyo and could extend the measure to other areas as Japan struggles to contain a surge in infections.

The Japanese Prime Minister has been criticised and his support ratings have tumbled for his handling of the pandemic since he succeeded Abe in September. Suga's cabinet's approval rate slid 9 points from a month earlier to 41.3 per cent with the disapproval rate at 42.8 per cent, the Kyodo survey showed.

About 79 per cent said Suga's decision to call the state of emergency for Tokyo came too late and 68 per cent were dissatisfied with the government's response to the pandemic, the survey found.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Around 80 per cent of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to either be cancelled or delayed after a surge in coronavirus cases in the Asian country, a Kyodo News poll showed on Sunday.

Around 80 per cent of Japanese want the Tokyo Olympics to either be cancelled or delayed after a surge in coronavirus cases in the Asian country, a Kyodo News poll showed on Sunday. ALSO READ: IOC's senior official says Tokyo Olympics uncertain due to coronavirus surge According to the survey, 35.3 per cent want the Games to be cancelled and 44.8 per cent favoured another delay. The Olympics were scheduled to be held last year but was postponed due to coronavirus pandemic and is scheduled to be held between July 23-August 8 in Tokyo. On Thursday, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga declared a state of emergency on greater Tokyo and could extend the measure to other areas as Japan struggles to contain a surge in infections. The Japanese Prime Minister has been criticised and his support ratings have tumbled for his handling of the pandemic since he succeeded Abe in September. Suga's cabinet's approval rate slid 9 points from a month earlier to 41.3 per cent with the disapproval rate at 42.8 per cent, the Kyodo survey showed. About 79 per cent said Suga's decision to call the state of emergency for Tokyo came too late and 68 per cent were dissatisfied with the government's response to the pandemic, the survey found. (Inputs from Reuters)

Around 80% want Tokyo Olympics cancelled or delayed: Japanese survey

Tokyo 2020's organising committee on Thursday said that they have requested refunds for around 18 per cent of the tickets sold in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics.

Ticket holders were given a chance to receive a refund as the Games were postponed by a year due to novel coronavirus. According to the organisers' press release, roughly 810,000 tickets had been requested, out of a total of 4.45 million initially sold during the domestic lottery.

In November, ticket holders were allowed to make refund applications. These refunds will be initiated later this month.&nbsp;

"While we plan to resell the refunded tickets, how and when they will be resold has not yet been decided," the organisers said.

However, tickets that have been purchased by people for the Games, will remain valid for rescheduled events.

Organisers have yet to say whether spectators will be allowed into venues during the Games and have said a decision will be made on this "in the spring".

On Tuesday, the Olympic rings monument was reinstalled in Tokyo Bay after being removed in August for maintenance, as organisers ramp up preparations for next year’s postponed Summer Games.

The return of the monument, which stands 15.3m tall and 32.6m wide and was originally installed in January, should send a signal that the Games are getting closer, Tokyo metropolitan government planning director Atsushi Yanashimizu told Reuters.

“Since the symbol is here, we want Tokyo residents and also internationally to feel that the Games are coming very soon,” Yanashimizu said.

“Also, we want everyone to feel we will have the Tokyo 2020 Games definitely next year.”&nbsp;

Tokyo 2020's organising committee on Thursday said that they have requested refunds for around 18 per cent of the tickets sold in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics. Ticket holders were given a chance to receive a refund as the Games were postponed by a year due to novel coronavirus.

Tokyo 2020's organising committee on Thursday said that they have requested refunds for around 18 per cent of the tickets sold in Japan for the Tokyo Olympics. Ticket holders were given a chance to receive a refund as the Games were postponed by a year due to novel coronavirus. According to the organisers' press release, roughly 810,000 tickets had been requested, out of a total of 4.45 million initially sold during the domestic lottery. In November, ticket holders were allowed to make refund applications. These refunds will be initiated later this month. "While we plan to resell the refunded tickets, how and when they will be resold has not yet been decided," the organisers said. However, tickets that have been purchased by people for the Games, will remain valid for rescheduled events. Organisers have yet to say whether spectators will be allowed into venues during the Games and have said a decision will be made on this "in the spring". On Tuesday, the Olympic rings monument was reinstalled in Tokyo Bay after being removed in August for maintenance, as organisers ramp up preparations for next year’s postponed Summer Games. The return of the monument, which stands 15.3m tall and 32.6m wide and was originally installed in January, should send a signal that the Games are getting closer, Tokyo metropolitan government planning director Atsushi Yanashimizu told Reuters. “Since the symbol is here, we want Tokyo residents and also internationally to feel that the Games are coming very soon,” Yanashimizu said. “Also, we want everyone to feel we will have the Tokyo 2020 Games definitely next year.”

Refunds for 18 per cent tickets sold for Tokyo Olympics requested: Organisers

Organisers of Tokyo Olympics have estimated that postponement of the games due to coronavirus has cost them about 200 billion yen ($1.9 billion), as per a report in Yomiuri newspaper on Sunday which cited people involved with the event.

In March, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Japanese government were forced to postpone the games to next year due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

According to the report, the Games cost 1.35 trillion yen ($13 billion) before the postponement.&nbsp;

The newspaper also reported that the organising committee will decide on a breakdown of the burden of the delay in December, after discussions between the committee, the Tokyo metropolitan government and the central government.&nbsp;

A spokesman for the organisers, asked about the report, told Reuters by text message only that the committee is examining the extra costs associated with the delay.

As per the newspaper, the postponement costs include payment to staff as well as the introduction of new systems for refunding tickets but do not include measures against the spread of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The organisers had originally estimated that the delay would cost nearly 300 billion yen but they were able to reduce that figure by simplifying some events, the report said.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Organisers of Tokyo Olympics have estimated that postponement of the games due to coronavirus has cost them about 200 billion yen ($1.9 billion), as per a report in Yomiuri newspaper on Sunday which cited people involved with the event.

Organisers of Tokyo Olympics have estimated that postponement of the games due to coronavirus has cost them about 200 billion yen ($1.9 billion), as per a report in Yomiuri newspaper on Sunday which cited people involved with the event. In March, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Japanese government were forced to postpone the games to next year due to coronavirus pandemic. According to the report, the Games cost 1.35 trillion yen ($13 billion) before the postponement. The newspaper also reported that the organising committee will decide on a breakdown of the burden of the delay in December, after discussions between the committee, the Tokyo metropolitan government and the central government. A spokesman for the organisers, asked about the report, told Reuters by text message only that the committee is examining the extra costs associated with the delay. As per the newspaper, the postponement costs include payment to staff as well as the introduction of new systems for refunding tickets but do not include measures against the spread of the coronavirus. The organisers had originally estimated that the delay would cost nearly 300 billion yen but they were able to reduce that figure by simplifying some events, the report said. (Inputs from Reuters)

Tokyo 2020 organisers estimate Olympics postponement cost $1.9 billion: Report

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes.

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The International Olympic Committee president has come under fire for the ruling, announced in a year which has seen widespread support by athletes for the Black Lives Matter movement.

But Bach, who won a team fencing gold medal at the 1976 Olympics, said he had learned first-hand about the "political impotence of sport" when West Germany boycotted the 1980 Games over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

"The athletes personify the values of excellence, solidarity and peace. They express this inclusiveness and mutual respect also by being politically neutral on the field of play and during the ceremonies," Bach wrote in British newspaper The Guardian.

"At times, this focus on sport needs to be reconciled with the freedom of speech that all athletes also enjoy at the Olympic Games. This is the reason there are rules for the field of play and the ceremonies protecting this spirit of sport.

"The unifying power of the Games can only unfold if everyone shows respect for and solidarity to one another. Otherwise, the Games will descend into a marketplace of demonstrations of all kinds, dividing and not uniting the world."

Earlier this month, World Athletics chief and newly enshrined IOC member Sebastian Coe backed athletes' right to "take the knee" on the Olympic podium, as long as it was done with "complete respect" for other competitors.

Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick made headlines when he began kneeling during the US national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality against Black Americans and other minorities.

He was ostracised by the league and criticised by US President Donald Trump, but in June the NFL sanctioned "peaceful protests" and world football's governing body FIFA has urged leagues to use "common sense" when deciding whether to discipline political activism.

In June, US athletes and 1968 Mexico Games icon John Carlos, famously kicked out of the event for raising his fist in a black power salute, called on the IOC to scrap the ban on protests.

"Athletes will no longer be silenced," they wrote.

Last month, hundreds of human rights and civil society groups urged the IOC to strip China of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics following its clampdown in Hong Kong and mass internment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes.

Olympic chief Thomas Bach warned against allowing the Games to "descend into a marketplace of demonstrations" on Saturday after criticism of a rule banning protests by athletes. Also read: 'There is a lingering regret': Novak Djokovic on US Open and Roland Garros The International Olympic Committee president has come under fire for the ruling, announced in a year which has seen widespread support by athletes for the Black Lives Matter movement. But Bach, who won a team fencing gold medal at the 1976 Olympics, said he had learned first-hand about the "political impotence of sport" when West Germany boycotted the 1980 Games over the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. "The athletes personify the values of excellence, solidarity and peace. They express this inclusiveness and mutual respect also by being politically neutral on the field of play and during the ceremonies," Bach wrote in British newspaper The Guardian. "At times, this focus on sport needs to be reconciled with the freedom of speech that all athletes also enjoy at the Olympic Games. This is the reason there are rules for the field of play and the ceremonies protecting this spirit of sport. "The unifying power of the Games can only unfold if everyone shows respect for and solidarity to one another. Otherwise, the Games will descend into a marketplace of demonstrations of all kinds, dividing and not uniting the world." Earlier this month, World Athletics chief and newly enshrined IOC member Sebastian Coe backed athletes' right to "take the knee" on the Olympic podium, as long as it was done with "complete respect" for other competitors. Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick made headlines when he began kneeling during the US national anthem in 2016 to protest police brutality against Black Americans and other minorities. He was ostracised by the league and criticised by US President Donald Trump, but in June the NFL sanctioned "peaceful protests" and world football's governing body FIFA has urged leagues to use "common sense" when deciding whether to discipline political activism. In June, US athletes and 1968 Mexico Games icon John Carlos, famously kicked out of the event for raising his fist in a black power salute, called on the IOC to scrap the ban on protests. "Athletes will no longer be silenced," they wrote. Last month, hundreds of human rights and civil society groups urged the IOC to strip China of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics following its clampdown in Hong Kong and mass internment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Olympic chief says Games cannot be 'marketplace of demonstrations'

Tokyo Olympics organisers said they were on constant alert for cyberattacks Tuesday but had yet to suffer "significant impact" after Britain accused Russia of targeting the Games.

Britain's foreign ministry said Russian spies attacked the 2020 Games' organisers, logistics services and sponsors before the event was postponed by one year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Tokyo 2020 officials said they had taken a range of countermeasures against digital attacks but did not disclose details, citing security concerns.

"While we have constantly monitored various types of cyberattack on the digital platforms owned by Tokyo 2020, no significant impact has been observed in our operations," an organising committee statement said.

Britain's allegations came as six Russian military intelligence officers were charged in the United States with carrying out cyberattacks on Ukraine's power grid, the 2017 French elections and the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games.

British daily The Guardian said alleged digital reconnaissance work on Tokyo 2020 had included spearphishing -- messages disguised to appear as if from a trusted friend or business connection, but which contain malware.

The planned attack also included setting up fake websites and researching individuals' account security, the newspaper said. 
Japan's Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto declined to directly address the report on Tuesday, but said that "since the London Games, cyberattacks have been increasing".

The US justice department said the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea were targeted after Russian athletes were banned from participating under their own flag because of government-sponsored doping efforts.

"Their cyber attack combined the emotional maturity of a petulant child with the resources of a nation state," he said, adding that they attempted to pin it on North Korea.

"During the opening ceremony, they launched the 'Olympic Destroyer' malware attack, which deleted data from thousands of computers supporting the Games, rendering them inoperable," he said.

Lee Hee-beom, former president and CEO of the Pyeongchang organising committee, said he was unaware who was responsible for the attack until now. 
"There was a hacking on the opening day but we could not not confirm its source," Lee told AFP.&nbsp;

"Internet connection was lost right after the ceremony from the hacking and we had to mobilise experts to restore it all night. Until now, I did not know who had done it."

Tokyo Olympics organisers said they were on constant alert for cyberattacks Tuesday but had yet to suffer "significant impact" after Britain accused Russia of targeting the Games.

Tokyo Olympics organisers said they were on constant alert for cyberattacks Tuesday but had yet to suffer "significant impact" after Britain accused Russia of targeting the Games. Britain's foreign ministry said Russian spies attacked the 2020 Games' organisers, logistics services and sponsors before the event was postponed by one year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Tokyo 2020 officials said they had taken a range of countermeasures against digital attacks but did not disclose details, citing security concerns. "While we have constantly monitored various types of cyberattack on the digital platforms owned by Tokyo 2020, no significant impact has been observed in our operations," an organising committee statement said. Britain's allegations came as six Russian military intelligence officers were charged in the United States with carrying out cyberattacks on Ukraine's power grid, the 2017 French elections and the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games. British daily The Guardian said alleged digital reconnaissance work on Tokyo 2020 had included spearphishing -- messages disguised to appear as if from a trusted friend or business connection, but which contain malware. The planned attack also included setting up fake websites and researching individuals' account security, the newspaper said. Japan's Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto declined to directly address the report on Tuesday, but said that "since the London Games, cyberattacks have been increasing". The US justice department said the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea were targeted after Russian athletes were banned from participating under their own flag because of government-sponsored doping efforts. "Their cyber attack combined the emotional maturity of a petulant child with the resources of a nation state," he said, adding that they attempted to pin it on North Korea. "During the opening ceremony, they launched the 'Olympic Destroyer' malware attack, which deleted data from thousands of computers supporting the Games, rendering them inoperable," he said. Lee Hee-beom, former president and CEO of the Pyeongchang organising committee, said he was unaware who was responsible for the attack until now. "There was a hacking on the opening day but we could not not confirm its source," Lee told AFP. "Internet connection was lost right after the ceremony from the hacking and we had to mobilise experts to restore it all night. Until now, I did not know who had done it."

Tokyo Olympics on alert for cyberattacks as alleged Russian plot revealed

Organisers on Friday said that 2021's Tokyo marathon has been postponed until after the delayed 2020 Olympics as coronavirus continues to rage across the world. Earlier, the race was set to take place on March 7, 2021.

Organisers on Friday said that 2021's Tokyo marathon has been postponed until after the delayed 2020 Olympics as coronavirus continues to rage across the world. Earlier, the race was set to take place on March 7, 2021. This race includes 38,000 runners which will also include some top athletes. But with restricted entry into the country and rules around big events, it is now being pushed back to October 17 "due to various restrictions related to the new coronavirus," a spokesman for the Tokyo Marathon Foundation told AFP. Marathon across the world have been cancelled or been postponed due to coronavirus pandemic. In 2020, Tokyo marathon was held in March with a reduced field of around 200 elite runners. According to the spokesman, holding the marathon later in 2021 could allow a larger race to take place, but added that the number of entrants was yet to be decided. The news comes as questions swirl about how and whether the Olympics, also forced back a year by the COVID crisis, will go forward. They are set to open on July 23, 2021, and organisers insist it can be done safely. But many countries are experiencing fresh waves of infection and big questions, including whether spectators will be allowed, remain unresolved. (Inputs from AFP)

2021 Tokyo Marathon postponed until after Olympics

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

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

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

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

Ante Milicic, the coach of Australia women's football team has quit on Sunday as the Tokyo Olympics have been pushed to 2021 due to coronavirus pandemic. The ex-Socceroos assistant was set to manage the Sam Kerr-led Matildas at Tokyo 2020 this month but has decided not to continue after the Games were postponed for a year.

Ante Milicic, the coach of Australia women's football team has quit on Sunday as the Tokyo Olympics have been pushed to 2021 due to coronavirus pandemic. The ex-Socceroos assistant was set to manage the Sam Kerr-led Matildas at Tokyo 2020 this month but has decided not to continue after the Games were postponed for a year. Also read: Olympic figure skater Ekaterina Alexandrovskaya dies aged 20 Milicic was set to manage A League's Macarthur FC after the Olympics. He was due to sign a three-year deal with the team. "I have enjoyed the past 18 months with the Matildas immensely and, in an ideal world, we would have been in Japan right now just days away from the start of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games," he said. "Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic and the rescheduling of the Games has created the unenviable situation where people will assess whether I have chosen one team over another. "Truth be told, I have simply chosen to honour the commitment I made to Macarthur over a year ago." Milicic succeeded Alen Stajcic, who was sacked in controversial circumstances in February 2019. Football Federation Australia chief James Johnson said he would "have loved" Milicic to stay but managing two teams at the same time was not workable. A recruitment drive would begin immediately and "we expect there will be no shortage of interest in this prestigious role," he added, with Australia due to host the 2023 Women's World Cup alongside New Zealand. (Inputs from AFP)

Australia women's football coach Milicic quits after delay in Tokyo Olympics

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

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

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

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

New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games.

The COVID-19 pandemic had forced the landmark decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics until next year with the sporting calendar for the year 2020 completely left shattered by the dreaded virus. With the historic decision to delay the Olympics by a year continues to settle down, the new dates of the Games will be announced soon with Mori expecting a decision from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) soon.&nbsp;

"I think perhaps there will be some kind of communication from (IOC) President (Thomas) Bach this week," Mori told reporters on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-expected-to-be-cancelled-with-no-mega-auction-next-season-report-289412">IPL 2020 expected to be cancelled with no mega auction next season: Report</a>

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were earlier scheduled to start on July 24 and run for 16 days but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the first peace-time postponement of the quadrennial event. While the IOC and Japan were optimistic that the show could go on but the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus had brought out heavy criticism from athletes and sporting federations and hence, the Games were delayed by a year.

The likely date to begin the Games will be July 23, 2021, as per pubic broadcaster NHK as it cited sources within the organizing panel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-boxer-anthony-yarde-urges-people-to-stay-at-home-after-his-father-dies-of-covid-19-despite-being-fit-with-no-health-issues-289428">British boxer Anthony Yarde urges people to stay at home after his father dies of COVID-19 despite being 'fit with no health issues'</a>

According to reports, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city. But the postponement affects every aspect be it logistics, hotels, ticketing, venues.&nbsp;

However, the Tokyo Olympics are being touted as the victory of humanity over the COVID-19.&nbsp;

"We are embarking on an unprecedented challenge," said Mori while adding, "but I believe it is the mission of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee to hold the Olympics and Paralympics next year as a proof of mankind's victory" against the virus. 
&nbsp;

New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games.

New dates for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympics are expected to be revealed this week, Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said while adding that the organizing committee is weighing on the pros and cons of summer and spring Games. The COVID-19 pandemic had forced the landmark decision to delay the Tokyo Olympics until next year with the sporting calendar for the year 2020 completely left shattered by the dreaded virus. With the historic decision to delay the Olympics by a year continues to settle down, the new dates of the Games will be announced soon with Mori expecting a decision from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) soon. "I think perhaps there will be some kind of communication from (IOC) President (Thomas) Bach this week," Mori told reporters on Monday. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 expected to be cancelled with no mega auction next season: Report The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were earlier scheduled to start on July 24 and run for 16 days but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the first peace-time postponement of the quadrennial event. While the IOC and Japan were optimistic that the show could go on but the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus had brought out heavy criticism from athletes and sporting federations and hence, the Games were delayed by a year. The likely date to begin the Games will be July 23, 2021, as per pubic broadcaster NHK as it cited sources within the organizing panel. ALSO READ: British boxer Anthony Yarde urges people to stay at home after his father dies of COVID-19 despite being 'fit with no health issues' According to reports, the Games were due to cost $12.6 billion, shared between the organising committee, the government of Japan and Tokyo city. But the postponement affects every aspect be it logistics, hotels, ticketing, venues. However, the Tokyo Olympics are being touted as the victory of humanity over the COVID-19. "We are embarking on an unprecedented challenge," said Mori while adding, "but I believe it is the mission of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee to hold the Olympics and Paralympics next year as a proof of mankind's victory" against the virus.

New dates for Tokyo Olympics likely to be announced 'this week': Organisers

Star Athletes who could miss the 2021 Tokyo Olympics

Sky Brown, who was poised to become the youngest Brit to be the part of the 2020 Summer Olympics sent a message to her fans on Tuesday telling them that she is fine and the things she does while she is at home practising social distancing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-tokyo-olympics-will-need-sacrifices-and-compromises-from-all-stakeholders-ioc-president-thomas-bach-288443">Postponed Tokyo Olympics will need 'sacrifices and compromises' from all stakeholders: IOC president Thomas Bach</a>

She posted a video on Instagram, where she said: "Hey guys. It's Sky Brown again. I've been getting a lot of emails, texts, DM's about the Olympics. 'Are you ok?' and Yes I'm ok! I mean it's just been delayed.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-IsO6iJPZC/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Its ok, It’s safer, and we really need to come together and focus on what’s really important right now. 🙅‍♀️🦠 #covid_19 isn’t gonna stop us💪🏼 @olympics @olympicchannel @teamgb @worldskateofficial @worldskatesb #playfortheworld #keepsmiling #tokyo2020 #2020 #cantstopsport #wegotthis #nike #justdoit #coronavirus @nike #skybrown #staystrong #staysafe #stayhealthy #olympics #keepdreaming #playfortheworld</a>

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It's been postponed. And that's why I want to talk to you from me. So yes the Olympics was my biggest dream. I wanted to be Britain's youngest-ever Olympian."

The young skateboarder Brown, was born in Japan to a British father and Japanese mother, would have been 12 years old when the 2020 Olympics kicked off in July. Her appearance would have broken the record set by swimmer Margery Hinton, who was 13 years and 43 days when she competed at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam.

With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan mutually agreeing to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, IOC president Thomas Bach on Wednesday said that the postponed Games would require ‘compromises and sacrifices’ from all stakeholders involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

Bach, a day after the IOC decided to delay the 2020 Games, said that the postponed Games will need sacrifices and compromises from all stakeholders to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true.&nbsp;

Sky Brown, who was poised to become the youngest Brit to be the part of the 2020 Summer Olympics sent a message to her fans on Tuesday telling them that she is fine and the things she does while she is at home practising social distancing.

Sky Brown, who was poised to become the youngest Brit to be the part of the 2020 Summer Olympics sent a message to her fans on Tuesday telling them that she is fine and the things she does while she is at home practising social distancing. Also read: Postponed Tokyo Olympics will need 'sacrifices and compromises' from all stakeholders: IOC president Thomas Bach She posted a video on Instagram, where she said: "Hey guys. It's Sky Brown again. I've been getting a lot of emails, texts, DM's about the Olympics. 'Are you ok?' and Yes I'm ok! I mean it's just been delayed. View this post on Instagram Its ok, It’s safer, and we really need to come together and focus on what’s really important right now. 🙅‍♀️🦠 #covid_19 isn’t gonna stop us💪🏼 @olympics @olympicchannel @teamgb @worldskateofficial @worldskatesb #playfortheworld #keepsmiling #tokyo2020 #2020 #cantstopsport #wegotthis #nike #justdoit #coronavirus @nike #skybrown #staystrong #staysafe #stayhealthy #olympics #keepdreaming #playfortheworld A post shared by Sky Brown (@skybrown) on Mar 24, 2020 at 5:09pm PDT × It's been postponed. And that's why I want to talk to you from me. So yes the Olympics was my biggest dream. I wanted to be Britain's youngest-ever Olympian." The young skateboarder Brown, was born in Japan to a British father and Japanese mother, would have been 12 years old when the 2020 Olympics kicked off in July. Her appearance would have broken the record set by swimmer Margery Hinton, who was 13 years and 43 days when she competed at the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam. With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Japan mutually agreeing to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by a year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, IOC president Thomas Bach on Wednesday said that the postponed Games would require ‘compromises and sacrifices’ from all stakeholders involved in the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Bach, a day after the IOC decided to delay the 2020 Games, said that the postponed Games will need sacrifices and compromises from all stakeholders to make the Olympic dreams of athletes come true.

Britain's youngest to-be Olympian Sky Brown sends special message to fans as Olympics gets postponed

The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team."

On Monday, a highly influential member of IOC, Richard Pound had said that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has been decided and an official announcement could be made soon.

“On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided. The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily while adding, “it will come in stages. We will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-to-be-postponed-by-a-year-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-288146">Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

<img alt="OLY-2020-TOKYO-THAILAND-HEALTH-VIRUS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="909aeed8-0cae-4fdb-818f-4fca82996350" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1Q3869.jpg" />

But have the Summer Olympics been cancelled any time in the past as well? The answer is yes. The Summer Olympics have been cancelled as many as three times in the past.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-pm-ioc-chief-to-speak-as-olympics-hangs-in-balance-288206">Japan PM, IOC chief to speak as Olympics hangs in balance</a>

<h2>What led to the cancellation of the Summer Olympics in past?</h2>

The first cancellation of Summer Olympics happened in 1916, which were scheduled to be hosted by Berlin. The Games had to be cancelled due to World War I and Berlin had to wait for another 20 years to host the quadrennial event again.

The 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II. The outbreak of World War II after the invasion of Poland by the Nazi led to the events to be completely cancelled. Furthermore, World War II also led to the complete cancellation of the Winter Olympics in 1940 and 1944.

In 2016 Rio Olympics, there were major concerns surrounding the outbreak of mosquito-borne ‘Zika’ virus but the Games were held as per the schedule. However, some of the athletes had decided to boycott the Games.

While the current scenario due to the deadly COVID-19 is not at all ideal for 2020 Tokyo Olympics to go ahead as planned, an official verdict on the quadrennial event is expected soon from the International Olympic Association (IOC).&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team.

The pressure is mounting on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to postpone the 2020 Tokyo Olympics given the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While Canada and Australia have already warned the IOC that they will be not sending their athletes to the Games, Hugh Robertson, the head of the British Olympic Association, has also said: "If the virus continues as predicted by the Government, I don't think there is any way we can send a team." On Monday, a highly influential member of IOC, Richard Pound had said that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has been decided and an official announcement could be made soon. “On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided. The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily while adding, “it will come in stages. We will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.” ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic But have the Summer Olympics been cancelled any time in the past as well? The answer is yes. The Summer Olympics have been cancelled as many as three times in the past. ALSO READ: Japan PM, IOC chief to speak as Olympics hangs in balance What led to the cancellation of the Summer Olympics in past? The first cancellation of Summer Olympics happened in 1916, which were scheduled to be hosted by Berlin. The Games had to be cancelled due to World War I and Berlin had to wait for another 20 years to host the quadrennial event again. The 1940 Summer Olympics in Helsinki and 1944 Summer Olympics in London were cancelled due to the World War II. The outbreak of World War II after the invasion of Poland by the Nazi led to the events to be completely cancelled. Furthermore, World War II also led to the complete cancellation of the Winter Olympics in 1940 and 1944. In 2016 Rio Olympics, there were major concerns surrounding the outbreak of mosquito-borne ‘Zika’ virus but the Games were held as per the schedule. However, some of the athletes had decided to boycott the Games. While the current scenario due to the deadly COVID-19 is not at all ideal for 2020 Tokyo Olympics to go ahead as planned, an official verdict on the quadrennial event is expected soon from the International Olympic Association (IOC).

Have the Summer Olympics ever been cancelled? A look back at history as dark clouds hover over 2020 Tokyo Games

A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide.

Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had admitted that they were looking at possible scenarios including postponement and that a final decision would be taken by April 20. However, with Canada and Australia forcing IOC’s hand by categorically refusing to send teams to the Olympics if they were held on July as per schedule.

Furthermore, the British Olympics Committee too indicated that it would withdraw from the Games if the coronavirus pandemic did not die down. 
IOC member Richard Pound is the senior-most IOC member and was the first to raise doubts over the Games a month ago. Now, he has said that the IOC has decided to postponed the quadrennial event to July 2021 and that was the only feasible option left with the global sporting calendar decimated. Pound admits the ramifications and logistical challenges of moving the Olympics will be huge.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/re-organising-olympics-a-herculean-task-former-ioc-marketing-head-288105">Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head</a>\

<h2>"We will postpone this"</h2>

“On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided,” Pound said in a phone interview. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily. &nbsp;

“It will come in stages,” Pound said while adding, “we will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.”

The IOC is dealing with the ramifications and logistical challenges of postponing Games for the first time since the Second World War and a formal announcement is expected in a few days.

Even the World Athletics president Lord Sebastian Coe had urged the IOC for a 12-month postponement of the Tokyo Games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-has-sought-update-on-health-and-preparations-of-olympic-bound-athletes-this-week-batra-288095">IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra</a>

“No-one wants to see the Olympic Games postponed but as I have said publicly, we cannot hold the event at all costs, certainly not at the cost of athlete safety, and a decision on the Olympic Games must become very obvious very quickly. I believe that time has come and we owe it to our athletes to give them respite where we can," Coe said.&nbsp;

However, IOC’s final take, officially, still remains that it will talk to all stakeholders and announce a final decision by April 20. The Olympics have never been postponed since the end of the Second World War.

A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide.

A highly influential member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are set to be postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with at least 341,000 people being tested positive worldwide. Earlier on Sunday, the IOC had admitted that they were looking at possible scenarios including postponement and that a final decision would be taken by April 20. However, with Canada and Australia forcing IOC’s hand by categorically refusing to send teams to the Olympics if they were held on July as per schedule. Furthermore, the British Olympics Committee too indicated that it would withdraw from the Games if the coronavirus pandemic did not die down. IOC member Richard Pound is the senior-most IOC member and was the first to raise doubts over the Games a month ago. Now, he has said that the IOC has decided to postponed the quadrennial event to July 2021 and that was the only feasible option left with the global sporting calendar decimated. Pound admits the ramifications and logistical challenges of moving the Olympics will be huge. ALSO READ: Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head\ "We will postpone this" “On the basis of the information, the IOC has, the postponement has been decided,” Pound said in a phone interview. “The parameters going forward have not been determined, but the Games are not going to start on July 24, that much I know,” Pound told a leading American daily. “It will come in stages,” Pound said while adding, “we will postpone this and begin to deal with all the ramifications of moving this, which are immense.” The IOC is dealing with the ramifications and logistical challenges of postponing Games for the first time since the Second World War and a formal announcement is expected in a few days. Even the World Athletics president Lord Sebastian Coe had urged the IOC for a 12-month postponement of the Tokyo Games. ALSO READ: IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra “No-one wants to see the Olympic Games postponed but as I have said publicly, we cannot hold the event at all costs, certainly not at the cost of athlete safety, and a decision on the Olympic Games must become very obvious very quickly. I believe that time has come and we owe it to our athletes to give them respite where we can," Coe said. However, IOC’s final take, officially, still remains that it will talk to all stakeholders and announce a final decision by April 20. The Olympics have never been postponed since the end of the Second World War.

Tokyo Olympics 2020 to be postponed by a year due to COVID-19 pandemic

Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-athletes-will-not-compete-at-tokyo-2020-games-due-to-risks-of-covid-19-287963">Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19</a>

The Canadian Olympic Committee has made it clear that it would not be sending its team for both the Olympics and the Paralympics.

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RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: <a href="https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4">https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4</a> <a href="https://t.co/x9OWABVxMA">pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA</a>
— Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamCanadaPR/status/1241900193395740674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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They want the games to be postponed by a year to the summer of 2021.

Canadian officials have made it clear that this is not just about athlete health but public health and that it was not safe for their team and support staff to continue training in the current circumstances.

Canada won a total of 22 medals at the 2016 Olympics and finished 20th on the medal table.

That announcement was followed by a bigger one from the Australia Olympic committee which asked its team to prepare for an Olympics in the summer of 2021.

Australia has made it clear that a team cannot be assembled at the moment due to the lockdowns in place globally due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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AOC CEO Matt Carroll to address the media this afternoon on today’s advice that the AOC cannot assemble a Team for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> 
 
When: 3.30pm Monday 23rd March, 2020 
 
Where: Grassed area in front of Museum of Contemporary Art 
 
Who: Matt Carroll, AOC CEO<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/eee5vza3aG">pic.twitter.com/eee5vza3aG</a>
— AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/AUSOlympicTeam/status/1241933521867788288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Australia is one of the most successful nations at the summer Olympics with 497 medals.

Australia's chef-de-mission Ian Chesterman said: "The Games can't be held in July, our athletes have been magnificent in their positive attitude to training and preparing, but the stress and uncertainty have been extremely challenging for them."

Chesterman appended that deferring the Games until next year "will allow athletes from around the world to properly prepare with the hope the coronavirus crisis will be under control".

Therefore, the Aussie board have decided to plan for the Summer Olympics next year.&nbsp;

Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Also read: Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19 The Canadian Olympic Committee has made it clear that it would not be sending its team for both the Olympics and the Paralympics. RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4 pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA — Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) March 23, 2020 × They want the games to be postponed by a year to the summer of 2021. Canadian officials have made it clear that this is not just about athlete health but public health and that it was not safe for their team and support staff to continue training in the current circumstances. Canada won a total of 22 medals at the 2016 Olympics and finished 20th on the medal table. That announcement was followed by a bigger one from the Australia Olympic committee which asked its team to prepare for an Olympics in the summer of 2021. Australia has made it clear that a team cannot be assembled at the moment due to the lockdowns in place globally due to the coronavirus pandemic. AOC CEO Matt Carroll to address the media this afternoon on today’s advice that the AOC cannot assemble a Team for #Tokyo2020 When: 3.30pm Monday 23rd March, 2020 Where: Grassed area in front of Museum of Contemporary Art Who: Matt Carroll, AOC CEO#TokyoTogether pic.twitter.com/eee5vza3aG — AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) March 23, 2020 × Australia is one of the most successful nations at the summer Olympics with 497 medals. Australia's chef-de-mission Ian Chesterman said: "The Games can't be held in July, our athletes have been magnificent in their positive attitude to training and preparing, but the stress and uncertainty have been extremely challenging for them." Chesterman appended that deferring the Games until next year "will allow athletes from around the world to properly prepare with the hope the coronavirus crisis will be under control". Therefore, the Aussie board have decided to plan for the Summer Olympics next year.

Australia and Canada pull out from Tokyo Olympics amid global pandemic scare

Canada has become the first country to decide&nbsp;to skip the Tokyo Olympics if it does not get deferred by at least a year.&nbsp;

The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee issued a joint statement on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

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RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: <a href="https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4">https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4</a> <a href="https://t.co/x9OWABVxMA">pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA</a>
— Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamCanadaPR/status/1241900193395740674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The statement read: "While we recognize the inherent complexities around a postponement, nothing is more important than the health and safety of our athletes and the world community,” the COC said in its statement.

"This is not solely about athlete health — it is about public health. With COVID-19 and the associated risks, it is not safe for our athletes, and the health and safety of their families and the broader Canadian community for athletes to continue training towards these Games."

According to the Tokyo Olympics' organisers, the games will begin on schedule despite the global pandemic extending its roots across the globe.&nbsp;

The Olympics will begin on July 24 whereas the Paralympics will begin on August 25.

Postponing the 2020 Olympics "may become inevitable" if the new coronavirus outbreak makes it impossible to hold the Games safely, Japan's prime minister said Monday.

Shinzo Abe told parliament that Japan was still committed to a "complete" Games, but added: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

Canada has become the first country to decide to skip the Tokyo Olympics if it does not get deferred by at least a year. The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee issued a joint statement on Sunday evening.

Canada has become the first country to decide to skip the Tokyo Olympics if it does not get deferred by at least a year. The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee issued a joint statement on Sunday evening. RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4 pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA — Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) March 23, 2020 × The statement read: "While we recognize the inherent complexities around a postponement, nothing is more important than the health and safety of our athletes and the world community,” the COC said in its statement. "This is not solely about athlete health — it is about public health. With COVID-19 and the associated risks, it is not safe for our athletes, and the health and safety of their families and the broader Canadian community for athletes to continue training towards these Games." According to the Tokyo Olympics' organisers, the games will begin on schedule despite the global pandemic extending its roots across the globe. The Olympics will begin on July 24 whereas the Paralympics will begin on August 25. Postponing the 2020 Olympics "may become inevitable" if the new coronavirus outbreak makes it impossible to hold the Games safely, Japan's prime minister said Monday. Shinzo Abe told parliament that Japan was still committed to a "complete" Games, but added: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19

Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP.

Payne, who in nearly two decades at the International Olympic Committee was widely credited with transforming its brand and finances through sponsorship, said Monday the IOC could have unilaterally cancelled the Games because of the coronavirus pandemic.

However, Payne believes that was never an option given Bach's experience as a sportsman of missing out on the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to the boycott by Western nations in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

Payne said behind the scenes the IOC have been moving towards a postponement for a while.

"It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," he told AFP in a phone interview.

"The IOC have been with increasing urgency looking to fall back on Plan B. The IOC remit allows them legally to cancel the Games unilaterally.

"Cancelling the Games though is not an option so to postpone the Games, you have to have your delivery partner (Japan) on board."

Payne said Japan would take its time to decide as until recently the local organisers had been enthusiastic about maintaining the Games in their scheduled slot.&nbsp;

"The Japanese have been holding out in the hope it might still be possible to hold the Games in July," he said.

"The cost to the Japanese of postponing them is loss of face and political capital to (Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo) Abe as this is very much his project.

"In the last few days Japan have been very up for them to go ahead but the problem is the rest of the world cannot get there."

Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP.

Thomas Bach and the IOC should not be criticised for procrastination over the Tokyo Olympics as re-organising them is "mind-bogglingly complex", the movement's former head of marketing Michael Payne told AFP. Payne, who in nearly two decades at the International Olympic Committee was widely credited with transforming its brand and finances through sponsorship, said Monday the IOC could have unilaterally cancelled the Games because of the coronavirus pandemic. However, Payne believes that was never an option given Bach's experience as a sportsman of missing out on the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to the boycott by Western nations in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Payne said behind the scenes the IOC have been moving towards a postponement for a while. "It is mind-bogglingly complex to make a sudden change after seven years of preparation for the biggest sporting event in the world," he told AFP in a phone interview. "The IOC have been with increasing urgency looking to fall back on Plan B. The IOC remit allows them legally to cancel the Games unilaterally. "Cancelling the Games though is not an option so to postpone the Games, you have to have your delivery partner (Japan) on board." Payne said Japan would take its time to decide as until recently the local organisers had been enthusiastic about maintaining the Games in their scheduled slot. "The Japanese have been holding out in the hope it might still be possible to hold the Games in July," he said. "The cost to the Japanese of postponing them is loss of face and political capital to (Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo) Abe as this is very much his project. "In the last few days Japan have been very up for them to go ahead but the problem is the rest of the world cannot get there."

Re-organising Olympics a Herculean task: former IOC marketing head

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks.

"I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said.

"All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added. 
He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19.

In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\

Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard.

"As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home."

More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics.

On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021. 
World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian Olympic Association President Narinder Batra on Monday said the IOC has asked all members to furnish updates on health and preparations of their Olympic-bound athletes this week as it deliberates on the fate of the Tokyo Games amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), under pressure to postpone the Games, has asked National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to detail the impact of the coronavirus crisis on athletes' preparation. The IOC on Monday said it will consider all options, barring cancellation, in the next four weeks. "I am personally in touch on regular and continuous basis with Sports Ministry, Sports Authority of India, IOC, NSFs, with athletes through the NSFs and all stake holders regarding the 2020 Olympics and preparations for Olympics," Batra said. "All NOCs have to get back to IOC this week on their preparations and the health of athletes in their respective countries," he added. He said international federations had a video call with the IOC President Thomas Bach on March 17 and with all 206 NOCs on March 19 to discuss the impact of COVID-19. In a questionnaire titled "COVID-19 and preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games", the IOC has asked the Olympic committees of its member countries "how do the emergency regulations relating to COVID-19 limit the training and preparation of your athletes?"\\ Batra, also an IOC member and president of the International Hockey Federation, said the health and safety of athletes was the prime concern of the IOA and of the Sports Ministry and there will be no compromise in that regard. "As of now, hockey men and women, track and field athletes and weightlifters are in their training camps while other (Olympic) probable athletes are mostly back home." More than 70 Indian athletes have qualified for the Olympics. On Monday, Canada and Australia said they will pull out of the showpiece if is held this year and demanded that the event be shifted to 2021. World athletics boss Sebastian Coe also urged the IOC to announce postponement, citing the pandemic which has claimed more than 14,000 lives across the globe.

IOC has sought update on health and preparations of Olympic-bound athletes this week: Batra

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

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

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

World Athletics chief Coe calls for Olympics postponement

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day.

IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000.&nbsp;

Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponing-tokyo-olympics-may-become-inevitable-says-japan-pm-abe-as-coronavirus-emergency-grows-287958">Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows</a>

<h2>"We will wait and watch"</h2>

"We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI.

"The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-athletes-will-not-compete-at-tokyo-2020-games-due-to-risks-of-covid-19-287963">&nbsp;Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19</a>

Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate.

Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone."

The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

<o:p></o:p>

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year.

The Indian Olympic Association on Monday said it is ready to wait for at least a month before taking any final call on India’s participation at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Canada became the first nation to pull out of the quadrennial event if it is held this year. Not only Canada, but even Australia have asked its athletes to prepare for the Games in 2021 as it thinks the showpiece event will eventually get postponed as the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate with each passing day. IOA Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said the committee is closely monitoring the development surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed a staggering 14,000 while infecting over 3,00,000. Mehta said IOC will wait and watch for the next four to five weeks before taking any call after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry while adding the situation in India is not that bad as compared to other nations. ALSO READ: Postponing Tokyo Olympics may become 'inevitable', says Japan PM Abe as coronavirus emergency grows "We will wait and watch" "We will wait and watch for 4 to 5 weeks and then come to any decision after consultation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sports ministry," Mehta told PTI. "The situation is not that bad in our country as compared to other nations," he added. ALSO READ: Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19 Furthermore, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday told the parliament that the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ‘may become inevitable’ if the situation surrounding the novel COVID-19 continues to deteriorate. Abe said while the nation is still completely committed to a ‘complete’ Games, postponement may be inevitable considering the safety and welfare of athletes first. Abe in the parliament said: "if that becomes difficult, in light of considering athletes first, it may become inevitable that we make a decision to postpone." The total number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed 350, including seven deaths so far.

IOA ready to 'wait and watch for a month before any decision' as Canada pulls out of 2020 Tokyo Olympics

The Shooting Federation of India, the NRAI, has become the first sporting body in the country to suggest a postponement of the Olympic Games till November as the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues deteriorate with each passing day. While the COVID-19 has already shattered the sporting calendar, the discussions and debate relating to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has started to heat up.&nbsp;

<h2>WATCH: Should the Olympics be Postponed?&nbsp;In conversation with Digvijay singh Deo, Sports Editor, WION</h2>

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NRAI President Raninder Singh who is also the vice president of the International Shooting Federation commented on&nbsp;a post on WION’s YouTube channel. Here's what he said: 
<img alt="Raninder Singh comment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="53b362f3-db61-4a8f-9a1a-63bc93b406a1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_5.JPG" />

India’s shooters have dominated world shooting in the last 18 months and a record 15 shooters have qualified for the Olympics.&nbsp;It was being estimated that India’s medal haul at the games would be powered by Indian shooters but with all training schedules disrupted and most sportspersons training in isolation Singh estimates that his team would need five to six months to return to peak performance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-indias-leading-sporting-voices-prefer-olympic-postponement-287443">EXCLUSIVE: India's leading sporting voices prefer Olympic postponement</a>

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First big voice in Indian sport calling for a postponement of the Olympic Games to November. In a comment on <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> YouTube Channel <a href="https://twitter.com/RaninderSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaninderSingh</a> President <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialNRAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialNRAI</a> and Vice President <a href="https://twitter.com/ISSF_Shooting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ISSF_Shooting</a> says Indian shooters will need 5-6 months to come back into peak. <a href="https://t.co/Y0g9m32CUc">pic.twitter.com/Y0g9m32CUc</a>
— Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo/status/1241248378396250113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Considering the prevailing situation Singh says that if the Olympics are delayed by more than two weeks From the July 24 start date then it makes sense to push back to November 2020. He further reminded the powers that be in world sport that even ten gold medals were not equal to the life of one man.

Furthermore, Heena Sidhu, the first Indian pistol shooter to win a gold medal in an ISSF World Cup finals, supported the idea of postponement by saying lives shouldn't be put on the line while hoping the IOC makes the right decision when the time comes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-olympic-committee-official-urges-tokyo-2020-delay-287532">Japan Olympic Committee official urges Tokyo 2020 delay</a>

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I agree with <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> a 100 percent. It may be early to make a decision right now but when the time comes I hope the IOC makes the right decision. Peoples lives shouldn't be put on the line. I hope they dont shy from postponing. <a href="https://twitter.com/iocmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iocmedia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ok9KUyH9eT">https://t.co/ok9KUyH9eT</a>
— Heena SIDHU (@HeenaSidhu10) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeenaSidhu10/status/1241215277221548032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With all the reactions coming, it remains to be seen what decision the authorities take about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as the waiting game continues for the biggest sporting carnival in the world.&nbsp;

The Shooting Federation of India, the NRAI, has become the first sporting body in the country to suggest a postponement of the Olympic Games till November as the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues deteriorate with each passing day.

The Shooting Federation of India, the NRAI, has become the first sporting body in the country to suggest a postponement of the Olympic Games till November as the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues deteriorate with each passing day. While the COVID-19 has already shattered the sporting calendar, the discussions and debate relating to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics has started to heat up. WATCH: Should the Olympics be Postponed? In conversation with Digvijay singh Deo, Sports Editor, WION × NRAI President Raninder Singh who is also the vice president of the International Shooting Federation commented on a post on WION’s YouTube channel. Here's what he said: India’s shooters have dominated world shooting in the last 18 months and a record 15 shooters have qualified for the Olympics. It was being estimated that India’s medal haul at the games would be powered by Indian shooters but with all training schedules disrupted and most sportspersons training in isolation Singh estimates that his team would need five to six months to return to peak performance. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: India's leading sporting voices prefer Olympic postponement First big voice in Indian sport calling for a postponement of the Olympic Games to November. In a comment on @WIONews YouTube Channel @RaninderSingh President @OfficialNRAI and Vice President @ISSF_Shooting says Indian shooters will need 5-6 months to come back into peak. pic.twitter.com/Y0g9m32CUc — Digvijay Singh Deo (@DiggySinghDeo) March 21, 2020 × Considering the prevailing situation Singh says that if the Olympics are delayed by more than two weeks From the July 24 start date then it makes sense to push back to November 2020. He further reminded the powers that be in world sport that even ten gold medals were not equal to the life of one man. Furthermore, Heena Sidhu, the first Indian pistol shooter to win a gold medal in an ISSF World Cup finals, supported the idea of postponement by saying lives shouldn't be put on the line while hoping the IOC makes the right decision when the time comes. ALSO READ: Japan Olympic Committee official urges Tokyo 2020 delay I agree with @DiggySinghDeo a 100 percent. It may be early to make a decision right now but when the time comes I hope the IOC makes the right decision. Peoples lives shouldn't be put on the line. I hope they dont shy from postponing. @iocmedia https://t.co/ok9KUyH9eT — Heena SIDHU (@HeenaSidhu10) March 21, 2020 × With all the reactions coming, it remains to be seen what decision the authorities take about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as the waiting game continues for the biggest sporting carnival in the world.

Shooting Federation of India, NRAI react to WION's report; suggest postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics

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

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

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

Olympic flame gets muted welcome in Japan as Games doubts grow

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

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

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

Japan Olympic Committee official urges Tokyo 2020 delay

The Olympics going ahead in Tokyo this year is "highly unlikely", the boss of Asian golf told AFP, and proceeding as planned could cost players the chance to qualify.

The International Olympic Committee said this week it was "fully committed" to holding the Games from July 24 despite the coronavirus pandemic, but acknowledged there was no "ideal" solution as pressure mounted for a postponement.

Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO Cho Minn Thant confirmed that all tournaments across the continent had been suspended until at least the end of May, in line with the US PGA and European Tours.

"I think everyone right now is more in a state of shock, just trying to figure out what they do with themselves," said Cho, speaking by telephone from Asian Tour headquarters in Singapore.&nbsp;

With the prospect of scarcely any competitive golf before the Olympic rankings qualifying cut-off on June 22, Cho said it would be harsh on players from unheralded golf nations.

"Our plan initially was to have about 16 or 17 tournaments before the Olympic cut-off," Cho said. "Today, we probably have only about four or five Asian Tour players eligible for the Olympics."

<h2>- Olympics 'highly unlikely' -</h2>

On current rankings, only Thailand's Jazz Janewattananond and Gunn Charoenkul, the Indian pair of Rashid Khan and Udayan Mane plus Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines would represent the Asian Tour in the 60-strong Tokyo field.

"Given the amount of golf that was left to be played, we were hopeful that more players from nations like Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines would have the opportunity to get into the Olympics over the next two or three months," said Cho.&nbsp;

"Obviously, that's not going to happen.&nbsp;

"I can understand why they would want to push forward with the Olympics -- there'd be huge revenue ramifications on the economy of Japan --&nbsp;but it seems highly unlikely now in my opinion."

Cho said that he hadn't yet heard of any players suffering financial hardship but acknowledged that a long layoff could have an impact.

Players such as the world number 39 Jazz, last year's Asian Tour order of merit winner, will remain in the US where he had been due to play a full schedule before a debut at the now-postponed US Masters next month.

"I keep in contact with quite a few players and a lot of them are comfortable," Cho said.&nbsp;

"I feel for the guys who just came through qualifying school and they've probably played one or two events in their life.

"It's very different to having a bad season where you're missing cuts, but you still have got the opportunity to compete.&nbsp;

"Right now you're deprived of the opportunity to compete. That's a whole different ballgame."&nbsp;

<h2>- Calendar shift -</h2>

The Asian Tour can play all-year round, which means the crisis could lead to a permanent shift in the Asian golfing calendar to a wraparound season played from September to April.

"A tour like Europe's going to have a lot harder time rescheduling events. Theirs is a very short golf season," Cho said.&nbsp;

"I'm hoping that we can continue golf this year, whether it be July, September, October or November. It will definitely help mitigate the potential downside.

"If we could start between July and October, it means we will probably go through to April. We've been planning a wraparound season for the longest time but never really formalised it.

"We're talking to sponsors and promoters. They're definitely ready to go. They're prepared to stage events whenever the world is ready to get back to normal."

The Olympics going ahead in Tokyo this year is "highly unlikely", the boss of Asian golf told AFP, and proceeding as planned could cost players the chance to qualify.

The Olympics going ahead in Tokyo this year is "highly unlikely", the boss of Asian golf told AFP, and proceeding as planned could cost players the chance to qualify. The International Olympic Committee said this week it was "fully committed" to holding the Games from July 24 despite the coronavirus pandemic, but acknowledged there was no "ideal" solution as pressure mounted for a postponement. Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO Cho Minn Thant confirmed that all tournaments across the continent had been suspended until at least the end of May, in line with the US PGA and European Tours. "I think everyone right now is more in a state of shock, just trying to figure out what they do with themselves," said Cho, speaking by telephone from Asian Tour headquarters in Singapore. With the prospect of scarcely any competitive golf before the Olympic rankings qualifying cut-off on June 22, Cho said it would be harsh on players from unheralded golf nations. "Our plan initially was to have about 16 or 17 tournaments before the Olympic cut-off," Cho said. "Today, we probably have only about four or five Asian Tour players eligible for the Olympics." - Olympics 'highly unlikely' - On current rankings, only Thailand's Jazz Janewattananond and Gunn Charoenkul, the Indian pair of Rashid Khan and Udayan Mane plus Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines would represent the Asian Tour in the 60-strong Tokyo field. "Given the amount of golf that was left to be played, we were hopeful that more players from nations like Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines would have the opportunity to get into the Olympics over the next two or three months," said Cho. "Obviously, that's not going to happen. "I can understand why they would want to push forward with the Olympics -- there'd be huge revenue ramifications on the economy of Japan -- but it seems highly unlikely now in my opinion." Cho said that he hadn't yet heard of any players suffering financial hardship but acknowledged that a long layoff could have an impact. Players such as the world number 39 Jazz, last year's Asian Tour order of merit winner, will remain in the US where he had been due to play a full schedule before a debut at the now-postponed US Masters next month. "I keep in contact with quite a few players and a lot of them are comfortable," Cho said. "I feel for the guys who just came through qualifying school and they've probably played one or two events in their life. "It's very different to having a bad season where you're missing cuts, but you still have got the opportunity to compete. "Right now you're deprived of the opportunity to compete. That's a whole different ballgame." - Calendar shift - The Asian Tour can play all-year round, which means the crisis could lead to a permanent shift in the Asian golfing calendar to a wraparound season played from September to April. "A tour like Europe's going to have a lot harder time rescheduling events. Theirs is a very short golf season," Cho said. "I'm hoping that we can continue golf this year, whether it be July, September, October or November. It will definitely help mitigate the potential downside. "If we could start between July and October, it means we will probably go through to April. We've been planning a wraparound season for the longest time but never really formalised it. "We're talking to sponsors and promoters. They're definitely ready to go. They're prepared to stage events whenever the world is ready to get back to normal."

Asian golfers could lose out if Olympics go ahead: Tour chief

Athletes have voiced their dissent regarding the Olympics being held amid the novel coronavirus. The organisers have said that the Tokyo Olympics will be on schedule and International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that no "drastic decision" will be made despite the outbreak of the global pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-sacrifice-lives-doubts-grow-in-japan-over-tokyo-olympics-286798" hreflang="en">'Don't sacrifice lives': doubts grow in Japan over Tokyo Olympics</a>

IOC has said that measures are being taken, these measures will guarantee "safety and interests of athletes, coaches and support teams."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-continues-to-prepare-for-olympics-pm-abe-says-286392" hreflang="en">Japan continues to prepare for Olympics, PM Abe says</a>

Athletes are concerned regarding this decision, they find themselves in a sticky position. Among these athletes British heptathlon world champion Katerina Johnson-Thompson said: "We're trying to follow information with how to continue (training) safely whilst reducing the risk to everyone around us and the information of the IOC and the local government are at odds with one another."

"The IOC advice 'encourages athletes to continue to prepare for the Olympics Games as best as they can' with the Olympics only four months away, but the governing legislation is enforcing isolation at home with tracks, gyms and public spaces closed.

"I feel under pressure to train and keep the same routine which is impossible."

Thompson recently returned to the UK from France after training there, she has seen cancellations in the training camps in the United States also.&nbsp;

43 per cent of the qualification is still to take place, leaving players position in jeopardy regarding the participation in the gala event despite the global pandemic spread.

Athletes have voiced their dissent regarding the Olympics being held amid the novel coronavirus. The organisers have said that the Tokyo Olympics will be on schedule and International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that no "drastic decision" will be made despite the outbreak of the global pandemic.

Athletes have voiced their dissent regarding the Olympics being held amid the novel coronavirus. The organisers have said that the Tokyo Olympics will be on schedule and International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that no "drastic decision" will be made despite the outbreak of the global pandemic. Also read: 'Don't sacrifice lives': doubts grow in Japan over Tokyo Olympics IOC has said that measures are being taken, these measures will guarantee "safety and interests of athletes, coaches and support teams." Also read: Japan continues to prepare for Olympics, PM Abe says Athletes are concerned regarding this decision, they find themselves in a sticky position. Among these athletes British heptathlon world champion Katerina Johnson-Thompson said: "We're trying to follow information with how to continue (training) safely whilst reducing the risk to everyone around us and the information of the IOC and the local government are at odds with one another." "The IOC advice 'encourages athletes to continue to prepare for the Olympics Games as best as they can' with the Olympics only four months away, but the governing legislation is enforcing isolation at home with tracks, gyms and public spaces closed. "I feel under pressure to train and keep the same routine which is impossible." Thompson recently returned to the UK from France after training there, she has seen cancellations in the training camps in the United States also. 43 per cent of the qualification is still to take place, leaving players position in jeopardy regarding the participation in the gala event despite the global pandemic spread.

Athletes voice their concern regarding Tokyo 2020 being 'on-schedule' amid coronavirus

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