Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo.

The 23-year-old has won 10 titles on the WTA Tour but had never crossed the fourth round at a Grand Slam before this month's Wimbledon, where she made it to the semi-finals before losing in three sets to Czech Karolina Pliskova.

"It's my first Olympic Games and I'm really looking forward to it," she told the International Tennis Federation. "This is something new for me. I would say this is the new challenge and I'm really looking forward to it.

"I'm really happy to represent my country, my people and I want to do everything I can to make sure that Belarus is proud of me. I want to represent my country as strong people who can fight through everything."

World number one Ash Barty of Australia and home hope Naomi Osaka, who is ranked second and won four of the last six Grand Slams held on hardcourts, are expected to be Sabalenka's main challengers at the Ariake Tennis Park.

"I will do everything I can to make this dream (come) true," she said, adding that just thinking about the Olympics gave her goosebumps.

"I am looking forward to the fights. This is something really unbelievable. I'm not afraid of anybody."

Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo.

Fresh from her breakthrough Grand Slam performance at Wimbledon, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is heading to the 2020 Olympics determined to win a medal for Belarus and says she has no reason to fear any of her rivals in Tokyo. The 23-year-old has won 10 titles on the WTA Tour but had never crossed the fourth round at a Grand Slam before this month's Wimbledon, where she made it to the semi-finals before losing in three sets to Czech Karolina Pliskova. "It's my first Olympic Games and I'm really looking forward to it," she told the International Tennis Federation. "This is something new for me. I would say this is the new challenge and I'm really looking forward to it. "I'm really happy to represent my country, my people and I want to do everything I can to make sure that Belarus is proud of me. I want to represent my country as strong people who can fight through everything." World number one Ash Barty of Australia and home hope Naomi Osaka, who is ranked second and won four of the last six Grand Slams held on hardcourts, are expected to be Sabalenka's main challengers at the Ariake Tennis Park. "I will do everything I can to make this dream (come) true," she said, adding that just thinking about the Olympics gave her goosebumps. "I am looking forward to the fights. This is something really unbelievable. I'm not afraid of anybody."

Tennis: Fearless Sabalenka ready for 'new challenge' in Tokyo Olympics

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote.

Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-two-mexico-olympic-baseball-players-test-positive-for-covid-19-399160" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Two Mexico Olympic baseball players test positive for Covid-19</a>

"Due to the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic, there is potential for the Tokyo Summer Games to be more unpredictable than normal," Gracenote said, releasing its final 'Virtual Medal Table' before the start of the Games on Friday.

The United States was picked to top the table but its expected haul was cut to 96, compared to the 121 won five years ago.

Asian powerhouse China's medal count was put at 66 but Gracenote said it might be a conservative projection due to a lack of data on the country's athletes.

"Nearly 80% of the Chinese athletes ranked in the Virtual Medal Table top-8s have no results since the pandemic began and the forecast total may be underrating the country's actual performance," it said.

Russian athletes, who will be competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offences, were projected to come second in the table with 68 medals.

Britain was placed fifth with 52 medals, 15 fewer than it won in Rio.

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote. Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday.

Host-nation Japan is projected to improve its medals haul at the Tokyo Olympics by 50% from the Rio de Janeiro Games, according to data analysts Gracenote. Japan won a record-breaking 41 medals in Rio in 2016 and could increase that to 60, buoyed by gains from new and returning disciplines, including skateboarding, sport climbing and baseball, Gracenote said on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Two Mexico Olympic baseball players test positive for Covid-19 "Due to the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic, there is potential for the Tokyo Summer Games to be more unpredictable than normal," Gracenote said, releasing its final 'Virtual Medal Table' before the start of the Games on Friday. The United States was picked to top the table but its expected haul was cut to 96, compared to the 121 won five years ago. Asian powerhouse China's medal count was put at 66 but Gracenote said it might be a conservative projection due to a lack of data on the country's athletes. "Nearly 80% of the Chinese athletes ranked in the Virtual Medal Table top-8s have no results since the pandemic began and the forecast total may be underrating the country's actual performance," it said. Russian athletes, who will be competing in Tokyo as representatives of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) after the country was stripped of its flag and anthem for doping offences, were projected to come second in the table with 68 medals. Britain was placed fifth with 52 medals, 15 fewer than it won in Rio.

Japan projected to improve medals tally by 50% in Tokyo Olympics: Gracenote

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympic-cluster-scare-as-athletes-test-positive-in-games-village-398826" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village</a>

These 'anti-sex' beds are made from cardboard and are designed to only be able to withstand the weight of one person.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes 
 
Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. 
 
I see no problem for distance runners,even 4 of us can do😂 <a href="https://t.co/J45wlxgtSo">pic.twitter.com/J45wlxgtSo</a>
— Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paulchelimo/status/1416240846039523331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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American sprinter Paul Chelimo took to social media to share the pictures of the bed and wrote: "Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes. "Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners, even 4 of us can do"

"I can’t fly business polaris then sleep on a carton box. Now economy is very perfecto!" he added.&nbsp;

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At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done😂 
 
More added stress heading into Tokyo!
— Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paulchelimo/status/1416244958609121280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He went on to say that he would have to start practicing sleeping on the floor if the bed collapses. He tweeted: "At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses &nbsp;and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done. More added stress heading into Tokyo!"

The organisers of Tokyo 2020 also made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village.&nbsp;

“The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate.

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village These 'anti-sex' beds are made from cardboard and are designed to only be able to withstand the weight of one person. Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners,even 4 of us can do😂 pic.twitter.com/J45wlxgtSo — Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) July 17, 2021 × American sprinter Paul Chelimo took to social media to share the pictures of the bed and wrote: "Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes. "Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners, even 4 of us can do" "I can’t fly business polaris then sleep on a carton box. Now economy is very perfecto!" he added. At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done😂 More added stress heading into Tokyo! — Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) July 17, 2021 × He went on to say that he would have to start practicing sleeping on the floor if the bed collapses. He tweeted: "At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done. More added stress heading into Tokyo!" The organisers of Tokyo 2020 also made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village. “The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

'Anti-sex' beds in Tokyo Olympics? American sprinter shares images

According to reports, South Korea will start its exclusive food service for athletes and delegates during the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympic-cluster-scare-as-athletes-test-positive-in-games-village-398826"> Olympics</a> near the games village and will reportedly screen food content for possible nuclear radiation citing safety concern over the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Reports say&nbsp;nearly 420 meals will be delivered&nbsp;from a hotel near the games village to South Korean athletes and others associated with the team.

A team of cooks and nutritionists have already arrived in Japan. They will also reportedly conduct radiation checks on ingredients procured in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-organisers-assure-that-cardboard-beds-are-sturdy-after-anti-sex-reports-399022"> Japan</a>.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-first-case-of-coronavirus-in-olympic-village-398641/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The South Korean Olympic Committee said it has organised its own food programme in other Olympic events&nbsp;well. The move has reportedly irked<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-thirds-of-japanese-doubt-pandemic-olympics-can-be-safe-says-poll-398944"> Japanese</a> officials.

Japanese authorities had earlier assured countries that food sourced from various parts of the country served at the Olympics will be safe for consumption, however, the South Korean Olympic Committee had already decided to import food for its athletes.

Japan had said earlier that the US and Australia had lifted restrictions related to Fukushima with the region's food being exported to Thailand.

Meanwhile, South Korean President Moon Jae-in will not be visiting the country during the &nbsp;Olympics over what the South Korean president described as extremely "inappropriate" and "regrettable" remarks by a Japanese diplomat.

South Korea will be sending its culture minister to the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony to be held on Friday.&nbsp;

Japan and South Korean relations have been on a low ebb&nbsp;over territorial claims and World War II&nbsp;history in the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;

Amid the simmering relations between the two countries, the South Korean delegation was involved in a row in Japan as it displayed a banner related to a historical figure who fought against the&nbsp;Japanese invasion, however, it was asked to be removed after the International Olympic Committee(IOC) was informed it violated Olympic guidelines.

(With inputs from Agencies)

 
&nbsp;

According to reports, South Korea will start its exclusive food service for athletes and delegates during the Olympics near the games village and will reportedly screen food content for possible nuclear radiation citing safety concern over the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster.

According to reports, South Korea will start its exclusive food service for athletes and delegates during the Olympics near the games village and will reportedly screen food content for possible nuclear radiation citing safety concern over the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. Reports say nearly 420 meals will be delivered from a hotel near the games village to South Korean athletes and others associated with the team. A team of cooks and nutritionists have already arrived in Japan. They will also reportedly conduct radiation checks on ingredients procured in Japan. Watch: The South Korean Olympic Committee said it has organised its own food programme in other Olympic events well. The move has reportedly irked Japanese officials. Japanese authorities had earlier assured countries that food sourced from various parts of the country served at the Olympics will be safe for consumption, however, the South Korean Olympic Committee had already decided to import food for its athletes. Japan had said earlier that the US and Australia had lifted restrictions related to Fukushima with the region's food being exported to Thailand. Meanwhile, South Korean President Moon Jae-in will not be visiting the country during the Olympics over what the South Korean president described as extremely "inappropriate" and "regrettable" remarks by a Japanese diplomat. South Korea will be sending its culture minister to the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony to be held on Friday. Japan and South Korean relations have been on a low ebb over territorial claims and World War II history in the Korean Peninsula. Amid the simmering relations between the two countries, the South Korean delegation was involved in a row in Japan as it displayed a banner related to a historical figure who fought against the Japanese invasion, however, it was asked to be removed after the International Olympic Committee(IOC) was informed it violated Olympic guidelines. (With inputs from Agencies)

Fukushima effect: Now, South Korea to check food at Olympics for nuclear radiation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Six days before the opening ceremony, organisers said an unnamed person had tested positive for coronavirus in the Village, where thousands of athletes and officials will stay during the Game.

Tokyo Olympics: First case of Coronavirus in Olympic village

Kazunori&nbsp;Takishima's Olympic dream of setting a world record - a plan that had cost him almost $40,000 - ended this week when organisers said spectators would be banned for most of the Games events.

Takishima&nbsp;had bought a hundred Tokyo 2020 tickets, saving and scheming for years in the hope of attending the most Olympic events ever.

"I stayed up until three in the morning with my mind completely blank,"&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;said of his reaction to the decision to ban fans, wearing a headband emblazoned with the national symbol of Japan. "I was just really stunned by the news. I wish I had been able to cry. That would have helped relieve my stress."

A Tokyo resident who runs a real estate office,&nbsp;Takishima, 45, said that for most of his life he'd had no interest in sports.

A chance visit to a skating competition and the echo of blades scraping on ice prompted him to attend the 2006 Torino Games, where he saw Japanese figure skater Shizuka Arakawa take gold. At that point, he was mesmerised by the Olympics.

"I gain so many things when I attend Olympic events,"&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;said. "There are athletes who win a gold medal and other medals, and athletes who couldn't despite their immense efforts. The tears these athletes cry are authentic.

"When I see that, it makes me want to work harder at my job or make more effort or enjoy life."

He has attended every Summer and Winter Games since then, putting together elaborate schedules that sometimes only allow him four hours of sleep a night. At Rio in 2016 he walked out of a stadium, collapsed on the grass, and slept for an hour.

"There have been seconds where I myself wondered why I was doing this," he said.

Before Tokyo 2020,&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;had attended 106 ticketed Olympic competitions, and he had planned to see 28 events over the 17 days of the Games. The Guinness World Record stands at 128 and in May,&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;started negotiating with Guinness to register his record of 134.

With his family and friends, he spent 4 million yen ($36,386.79) on 100 tickets.

Then the coronavirus struck. Organisers postponed the Games, scaled them back, banned foreign spectators and finally prohibited fans altogether.&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;will get his money back; officials say tickets will be automatically refunded if there are no spectators.

"All the fun that I looked forward to was taken away, little by little,"&nbsp;Takishima&nbsp;said. "Banning fans from venues was the final blow."

While he's hopeful of breaking the record at next year's Beijing Olympics or at Paris in 2024, it won't be the same, he says.

Takishima&nbsp;is considering watching the opening ceremony on his phone outside the National Stadium, but otherwise doesn't know what he'll do.

Slowly scrolling through dozens of digital tickets on his phone, he said, "Just looking at these makes me want to cry."

Kazunori Takishima's Olympic dream of setting a world record - a plan that had cost him almost $40,000 - ended this week when organisers said spectators would be banned for most of the Games events.

Kazunori Takishima's Olympic dream of setting a world record - a plan that had cost him almost $40,000 - ended this week when organisers said spectators would be banned for most of the Games events. Takishima had bought a hundred Tokyo 2020 tickets, saving and scheming for years in the hope of attending the most Olympic events ever. "I stayed up until three in the morning with my mind completely blank," Takishima said of his reaction to the decision to ban fans, wearing a headband emblazoned with the national symbol of Japan. "I was just really stunned by the news. I wish I had been able to cry. That would have helped relieve my stress." A Tokyo resident who runs a real estate office, Takishima, 45, said that for most of his life he'd had no interest in sports. A chance visit to a skating competition and the echo of blades scraping on ice prompted him to attend the 2006 Torino Games, where he saw Japanese figure skater Shizuka Arakawa take gold. At that point, he was mesmerised by the Olympics. "I gain so many things when I attend Olympic events," Takishima said. "There are athletes who win a gold medal and other medals, and athletes who couldn't despite their immense efforts. The tears these athletes cry are authentic. "When I see that, it makes me want to work harder at my job or make more effort or enjoy life." He has attended every Summer and Winter Games since then, putting together elaborate schedules that sometimes only allow him four hours of sleep a night. At Rio in 2016 he walked out of a stadium, collapsed on the grass, and slept for an hour. "There have been seconds where I myself wondered why I was doing this," he said. Before Tokyo 2020, Takishima had attended 106 ticketed Olympic competitions, and he had planned to see 28 events over the 17 days of the Games. The Guinness World Record stands at 128 and in May, Takishima started negotiating with Guinness to register his record of 134. With his family and friends, he spent 4 million yen ($36,386.79) on 100 tickets. Then the coronavirus struck. Organisers postponed the Games, scaled them back, banned foreign spectators and finally prohibited fans altogether. Takishima will get his money back; officials say tickets will be automatically refunded if there are no spectators. "All the fun that I looked forward to was taken away, little by little," Takishima said. "Banning fans from venues was the final blow." While he's hopeful of breaking the record at next year's Beijing Olympics or at Paris in 2024, it won't be the same, he says. Takishima is considering watching the opening ceremony on his phone outside the National Stadium, but otherwise doesn't know what he'll do. Slowly scrolling through dozens of digital tickets on his phone, he said, "Just looking at these makes me want to cry."

Tokyo Olympics - The $40,000 man: Olympic fan's world record dream shattered by spectator ban

The Olympic flame arrived in Tokyo on Friday but the public was kept away from a low-key welcoming ceremony over coronavirus fears, after a "heartbreaking" announcement that spectators would be banned from most Games events.

On a rainy morning two weeks before the opening of the biggest sports tournament since the pandemic began, the flame was brought on stage in a lantern and handed to Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-to-be-held-behind-closed-doors-under-state-of-emergency-measures-396768" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics to be held behind closed doors under state of emergency measures</a>

Despite the disruption to the nationwide torch relay, "it has been transmitted as a way of hope," Koike said.

Tokyo 2020 organisers and government officials on Thursday night announced their decision to bar fans from Olympic events in the capital, which will be under a virus emergency throughout the Games.

It means the pandemic-postponed Games will be the first to take place largely behind closed doors, with a handful of competitions taking place outside the capital.

The torch relay began in March and was meant to build excitement for the Olympics, but it has been pulled from public roads in many places, including Tokyo, to prevent crowds from spreading the virus.

Before the flame arrived on Friday morning, five male trumpet players dressed in suits played a rousing melody under a gazebo to shelter them from the drizzle, with only journalists and officials looking on.

The stands were empty at the Komazawa Olympic Park stadium in the capital's southeastern suburbs, which was used in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics -- seen as Japan's great return to the world stage after World War II.

Friday's event gave a taste of the atmosphere that could await athletes at the opening ceremony, to be held on July 23 at the National Stadium in the city centre.

On Thursday night, Koike said she felt "heartbreaking grief about this decision," but organisers said they were left no choice as infections rise and the Delta variant causes growing concern.

Tokyo 2020 had hoped to have up to 10,000 fans in venues throughout the Games, but now most events will be watched only by officials and Olympic representatives.

Japan has so far recorded around 14,900 virus deaths, despite avoiding harsh lockdowns. The new virus emergency largely limits alcohol sales and shortens opening hours for restaurants.

The government has been criticised over the slow start to its vaccination programme, with around 16 percent of the population fully inoculated.

When the 2020 Games were postponed last year as the scale of the pandemic became clear, there was talk they would be staged as proof the world had overcome the virus.

But that triumphant tone has given way to the harsh reality of new infection surges and more contagious variants.

The nationwide torch relay has been fraught with problems since it began in March, with almost half the legs disrupted in some way.

The relay was forced off public roads in famous tourist cities such as Kyoto and Hiroshima over fears that crowds of fans could spread the virus.

And it has also met with some public opposition, with a 53-year-old woman arrested at the weekend for squirting liquid from a water pistol towards a runner, shouting "extinguish the flame!"

On Friday, a very small protest was held outside the Komazawa stadium, with fewer than a dozen people holding colourful banners, with one that said "Just stop it".

A decision on spectators at the Paralympic Games, which open on August 24, will not be taken until after the Olympics end, organisers said on Thursday.

The Olympic flame arrived in Tokyo on Friday but the public was kept away from a low-key welcoming ceremony over coronavirus fears, after a "heartbreaking" announcement that spectators would be banned from most Games events.

The Olympic flame arrived in Tokyo on Friday but the public was kept away from a low-key welcoming ceremony over coronavirus fears, after a "heartbreaking" announcement that spectators would be banned from most Games events. On a rainy morning two weeks before the opening of the biggest sports tournament since the pandemic began, the flame was brought on stage in a lantern and handed to Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics to be held behind closed doors under state of emergency measures Despite the disruption to the nationwide torch relay, "it has been transmitted as a way of hope," Koike said. Tokyo 2020 organisers and government officials on Thursday night announced their decision to bar fans from Olympic events in the capital, which will be under a virus emergency throughout the Games. It means the pandemic-postponed Games will be the first to take place largely behind closed doors, with a handful of competitions taking place outside the capital. The torch relay began in March and was meant to build excitement for the Olympics, but it has been pulled from public roads in many places, including Tokyo, to prevent crowds from spreading the virus. Before the flame arrived on Friday morning, five male trumpet players dressed in suits played a rousing melody under a gazebo to shelter them from the drizzle, with only journalists and officials looking on. The stands were empty at the Komazawa Olympic Park stadium in the capital's southeastern suburbs, which was used in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics -- seen as Japan's great return to the world stage after World War II. Friday's event gave a taste of the atmosphere that could await athletes at the opening ceremony, to be held on July 23 at the National Stadium in the city centre. On Thursday night, Koike said she felt "heartbreaking grief about this decision," but organisers said they were left no choice as infections rise and the Delta variant causes growing concern. Tokyo 2020 had hoped to have up to 10,000 fans in venues throughout the Games, but now most events will be watched only by officials and Olympic representatives. Japan has so far recorded around 14,900 virus deaths, despite avoiding harsh lockdowns. The new virus emergency largely limits alcohol sales and shortens opening hours for restaurants. The government has been criticised over the slow start to its vaccination programme, with around 16 percent of the population fully inoculated. When the 2020 Games were postponed last year as the scale of the pandemic became clear, there was talk they would be staged as proof the world had overcome the virus. But that triumphant tone has given way to the harsh reality of new infection surges and more contagious variants. The nationwide torch relay has been fraught with problems since it began in March, with almost half the legs disrupted in some way. The relay was forced off public roads in famous tourist cities such as Kyoto and Hiroshima over fears that crowds of fans could spread the virus. And it has also met with some public opposition, with a 53-year-old woman arrested at the weekend for squirting liquid from a water pistol towards a runner, shouting "extinguish the flame!" On Friday, a very small protest was held outside the Komazawa stadium, with fewer than a dozen people holding colourful banners, with one that said "Just stop it". A decision on spectators at the Paralympic Games, which open on August 24, will not be taken until after the Olympics end, organisers said on Thursday.

Tokyo 2020: Olympic flame arrives in Japanese capital for no-spectator relay

Organizers of the Tokyo Olympics have said that they are preparing to hold the games behind closed doors as the COVID-19 cases continue to surge in Japan.

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Cases continue to surge in Japan

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23.

The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love. Durant and Green were members of the 2016 U.S. Olympic gold medalist squad and Durant and Love were 2012 Olympic gold medalists.

Durant and Love were also part of the 2010 USA team that went 9-0 and captured the FIBA World Cup title, and Middleton and Tatum were members of the 2019 USA World Cup Team.

With his selection to the U.S. Olympic Team, Durant becomes just the fourth United States male basketball player selected to three or more Olympic teams. Carmelo Anthony (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) has represented and medaled for a USA men`s record four Olympics, while LeBron James (2004, 2008, 2012) and David Robinson (1988, 1992, 1996) each have three Olympic medals in as many appearances.

The average age of the 12 U.S. players at the conclusion of the Tokyo Olympics (August 8, 2021) will be 28.2, the third oldest U.S. Men`s Olympic Team in history, behind the 1996 Atlanta Olympics squad (29.4) and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Team (29.0).

The U.S. men have collected a medal in all 18 Olympics in which they have competed, including 15 gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals. The American men own an impressive 138-5 (.965 winning percentage) all-time record in Olympic action. Since NBA players began representing the United States in 1992, the USA is 53-3 in seven Olympics, capturing six gold medals and one bronze medal. The USA currently enjoys a 25-game Olympic win streak that dates back to the bronze medal game of the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Selected for the U.S. Olympic Team 2020, which is seeking a fourth consecutive Olympic title, were: Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Kevin Durant(Brooklyn Nets), Jerami Grant (Detroit Pistons), Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks), Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls), Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers), Kevin Love (Cleveland Cavaliers), Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks), and Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics).

The USA coaching staff is led by head coach Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) with assistant coaches Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), Lloyd Pierce and Jay Wright (Villanova University), and Jerry Colangelo serving as the USA Men`s National Team managing director.&nbsp;

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23. The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love.

Kevin Durant, a two-time Olympic gold medallist will lead the 12-member U.S. Men`s Basketball Team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo starting from July 23. The U.S. roster features the return of Olympic gold medalists Durant, Green, and Love. Durant and Green were members of the 2016 U.S. Olympic gold medalist squad and Durant and Love were 2012 Olympic gold medalists. Durant and Love were also part of the 2010 USA team that went 9-0 and captured the FIBA World Cup title, and Middleton and Tatum were members of the 2019 USA World Cup Team. With his selection to the U.S. Olympic Team, Durant becomes just the fourth United States male basketball player selected to three or more Olympic teams. Carmelo Anthony (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) has represented and medaled for a USA men`s record four Olympics, while LeBron James (2004, 2008, 2012) and David Robinson (1988, 1992, 1996) each have three Olympic medals in as many appearances. The average age of the 12 U.S. players at the conclusion of the Tokyo Olympics (August 8, 2021) will be 28.2, the third oldest U.S. Men`s Olympic Team in history, behind the 1996 Atlanta Olympics squad (29.4) and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Team (29.0). The U.S. men have collected a medal in all 18 Olympics in which they have competed, including 15 gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals. The American men own an impressive 138-5 (.965 winning percentage) all-time record in Olympic action. Since NBA players began representing the United States in 1992, the USA is 53-3 in seven Olympics, capturing six gold medals and one bronze medal. The USA currently enjoys a 25-game Olympic win streak that dates back to the bronze medal game of the 2004 Athens Olympics. Selected for the U.S. Olympic Team 2020, which is seeking a fourth consecutive Olympic title, were: Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Kevin Durant(Brooklyn Nets), Jerami Grant (Detroit Pistons), Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks), Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls), Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers), Kevin Love (Cleveland Cavaliers), Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks), and Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics). The USA coaching staff is led by head coach Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) with assistant coaches Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), Lloyd Pierce and Jay Wright (Villanova University), and Jerry Colangelo serving as the USA Men`s National Team managing director.

Tokyo Olympics: Kevin Durant to lead USA men's basketball team

Tokyo Olympics 2020 face the risk of becoming a super-spreader event. Who will be accountable if the virus spreads? Are the curbs for athletes too harsh? Molly Gambhir speaks to Tatsuo Ogura from the Tokyo Organising Committee.

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

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

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

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

Olympics-Tokyo 2020 organisers ban alcohol, defend allowing spectators

Infectious disease expert Atsuo Hamada still fondly remembers the thrill of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, but with a month until Japan hosts the Games again, he has concerns.

The journey to this year's Games has been like no other. After a historic pandemic postponement, organisers refused to pull the plug, despite infection risks, travel restrictions and persistent public opposition.

As the first athletes start arriving, Hamada says the Games must "be done in a way that will not bring the virus and variants to Japan."&nbsp;

"It will have to be done in a way that will not place extra burden on the medical system," he told AFP in an interview.

It's a delicate balancing act, and some medical professionals still want the Games called off, saying the risks of getting it wrong are too high.

Even Hamada, who makes no secret of his excitement about seeing the Olympics in Japan again, advises caution.

"The best thing is to ask the public to stay home and watch the Olympics on TV," he said.

Organisers have already imposed an unprecedented ban on overseas fans, and on Monday, announced domestic spectators would be limited to 10,000 per event.

They said events could move behind closed doors if the situation worsens, but Hamada wants a stronger commitment.

"In the worst-case scenario, a cancellation must be considered," said Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University.

He cites the recent situation in Osaka city, where dozens of people died from coronavirus as the medical system was overwhelmed.

When the Games were postponed last year, many hoped the pandemic would be over by the opening ceremony this summer.

Instead,&nbsp;even as vaccines roll out internationally, a deadly winter virus wave spread across the globe and highly infectious variants are on the rise.

<h2>- 'A degree of control' -</h2>

Organisers have sought to reassure an anxious public with tough countermeasures.

Athletes will be tested daily, and are banned from going anywhere but the Olympic village and their competition venues.&nbsp;

They can only enter the village shortly before their events and must leave within 48 hours of their discipline ending. Over 80 percent of those in the village will be vaccinated, Olympic officials say.

Hamada said those measures "should result in a degree of control."

But he worries about those outside the bubble, including participants like media coming from abroad.

"Journalists will surely want to report about Japan. Will they obey the rules?"&nbsp;

"I feel there have to be limits on their movement," he said.

Overseas journalists are barred from going anywhere but their hotels and Olympic sites for the first 14 days in Japan, with their movement tracked by GPS.

But Hamada believes more may be necessary, particularly for those coming from countries with high rates of infection or variants of concern.

He suggests they could be placed in a separate bubble, or face more rigorous testing, though any additional measures should "be done in ways that are not discriminatory."

<h2>- Pressure on the medical system -</h2>

Hamada and other medical experts worry that efforts to keep the Games safe, including regular testing and isolation of suspected cases, could add pressure to the country's medical system.

To assuage those fears, the International Olympic Committee has offered to bring extra doctors and nurses from overseas, and organisers have pledged to avoid stretching resources.

Hamada warned that Japan must not let the Games slow down its vaccine drive.

"Japan's vaccination efforts are making progress, and I do not wish to see them come under pressure," he said.

Despite his worries, the specialist is eager to relive the Olympic excitement of 1964.

He was nine when he sat inside the national stadium soaking in the euphoria of the Games, and remembers feeling his local street had been transformed after the world's top marathon runners pounded past.

"I still have this feeling inside me that I want to be there again, to experience it again."

Infectious disease expert Atsuo Hamada still fondly remembers the thrill of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, but with a month until Japan hosts the Games again, he has concerns.

Infectious disease expert Atsuo Hamada still fondly remembers the thrill of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, but with a month until Japan hosts the Games again, he has concerns. The journey to this year's Games has been like no other. After a historic pandemic postponement, organisers refused to pull the plug, despite infection risks, travel restrictions and persistent public opposition. As the first athletes start arriving, Hamada says the Games must "be done in a way that will not bring the virus and variants to Japan." "It will have to be done in a way that will not place extra burden on the medical system," he told AFP in an interview. It's a delicate balancing act, and some medical professionals still want the Games called off, saying the risks of getting it wrong are too high. Even Hamada, who makes no secret of his excitement about seeing the Olympics in Japan again, advises caution. "The best thing is to ask the public to stay home and watch the Olympics on TV," he said. Organisers have already imposed an unprecedented ban on overseas fans, and on Monday, announced domestic spectators would be limited to 10,000 per event. They said events could move behind closed doors if the situation worsens, but Hamada wants a stronger commitment. "In the worst-case scenario, a cancellation must be considered," said Hamada, a professor at Tokyo Medical University. He cites the recent situation in Osaka city, where dozens of people died from coronavirus as the medical system was overwhelmed. When the Games were postponed last year, many hoped the pandemic would be over by the opening ceremony this summer. Instead, even as vaccines roll out internationally, a deadly winter virus wave spread across the globe and highly infectious variants are on the rise. - 'A degree of control' - Organisers have sought to reassure an anxious public with tough countermeasures. Athletes will be tested daily, and are banned from going anywhere but the Olympic village and their competition venues. They can only enter the village shortly before their events and must leave within 48 hours of their discipline ending. Over 80 percent of those in the village will be vaccinated, Olympic officials say. Hamada said those measures "should result in a degree of control." But he worries about those outside the bubble, including participants like media coming from abroad. "Journalists will surely want to report about Japan. Will they obey the rules?" "I feel there have to be limits on their movement," he said. Overseas journalists are barred from going anywhere but their hotels and Olympic sites for the first 14 days in Japan, with their movement tracked by GPS. But Hamada believes more may be necessary, particularly for those coming from countries with high rates of infection or variants of concern. He suggests they could be placed in a separate bubble, or face more rigorous testing, though any additional measures should "be done in ways that are not discriminatory." - Pressure on the medical system - Hamada and other medical experts worry that efforts to keep the Games safe, including regular testing and isolation of suspected cases, could add pressure to the country's medical system. To assuage those fears, the International Olympic Committee has offered to bring extra doctors and nurses from overseas, and organisers have pledged to avoid stretching resources. Hamada warned that Japan must not let the Games slow down its vaccine drive. "Japan's vaccination efforts are making progress, and I do not wish to see them come under pressure," he said. Despite his worries, the specialist is eager to relive the Olympic excitement of 1964. He was nine when he sat inside the national stadium soaking in the euphoria of the Games, and remembers feeling his local street had been transformed after the world's top marathon runners pounded past. "I still have this feeling inside me that I want to be there again, to experience it again."

Japan infection expert eyes Olympics with excitement, concern

Hockey India today named veteran striker Rani as the Captain of the 16-member Olympic-bound Indian Women's Hockey Team. Rani&nbsp;is the&nbsp;obvious choice not just for her on-field exploits but also for her innate ability to guide the youngsters in the team.&nbsp;

Under Rani's Captaincy, the Indian team over the past four years have achieved significant results including winning the Asia Cup in 2017, Winning Silver at the Asian Games 2018, Silver at Asian Champions Trophy 2018 as well winning the FIH Series Final in 2019. The team led by Rani also made it to the quarterfinals of the FIH Women's World Cup 2018 in London for the first time. She was the cynosure of India's performance during the FIH Olympic Qualifiers in Bhubaneswar where her goal put the team ahead by 6-5 against USA to secure the qualification.&nbsp;

Hockey India also announced the very dependable defender Deep Grace Ekka and experienced goalkeeper Savita as the two Vice Captains of the Women's Team. Both the players have been in the Indian Core Group for nearly a decade and have been an integral part of the leadership group. They also played a&nbsp;key role in India's feats which saw them attain career-best ranking of World No.9 in 2018 following a strong performance at the FIH Women's World Cup.

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Congratulating all three players named for their leadership roles, Indian Women's Team Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne said, "I congratulate Rani on being named the Captain of the Indian Women's Hockey Team for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. I also congratulate Deep Grace Ekka and Savita on being named the Vice Captains of the team. All these three players have been part of the leadership group for a long time and have proven their abilities with this added responsibility and have guided many youngsters in the Core Group.&nbsp;

"Having two Vice Captains will also strengthen the core leadership group for the future. Their&nbsp;experience and role will be of importance as we aim to achieve good results in Tokyo. It has been a long journey for the team and we continue into a tough challenge at the Olympics. The team needs to be mentally strong and I am confident with these three players at the helm, they are headed in the right direction."&nbsp;

Expressing her gratitude on being named Captain, Rani said, "It is a huge honour to lead the Indian Team at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. In these past years my role as a Captain was made easy with teammates who have shared the responsibilities as senior players. I look forward to this added responsibility and thank Hockey India, Coaching staff and selectors for this honour."&nbsp;

Vice-captain Deep Grace Ekka too&nbsp;stated that this new responsibility will motivate her to ensure the team does well in Tokyo. "To lead India as Vice-Captain at the Olympics is a huge honour and it will surely motivate me further to do well for the team. We have players from different regions of India in the team, but we have come closer as a unit over these past 15 months during the pandemic which has been challenging for all," stated Grace who will be played her second Olympic Games.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Savita also expressed her gratefulness as she said, "I thank the team's support staff and Hockey India for giving me this responsibility. We are all eagerly awaiting to do well at the Olympics in Tokyo, and it will be great to lead India to good wins."&nbsp;

Hockey India today named veteran striker Rani as the Captain of the 16-member Olympic-bound Indian Women's Hockey Team. Rani is the obvious choice not just for her on-field exploits but also for her innate ability to guide the youngsters in the team.

Hockey India today named veteran striker Rani as the Captain of the 16-member Olympic-bound Indian Women's Hockey Team. Rani is the obvious choice not just for her on-field exploits but also for her innate ability to guide the youngsters in the team. Under Rani's Captaincy, the Indian team over the past four years have achieved significant results including winning the Asia Cup in 2017, Winning Silver at the Asian Games 2018, Silver at Asian Champions Trophy 2018 as well winning the FIH Series Final in 2019. The team led by Rani also made it to the quarterfinals of the FIH Women's World Cup 2018 in London for the first time. She was the cynosure of India's performance during the FIH Olympic Qualifiers in Bhubaneswar where her goal put the team ahead by 6-5 against USA to secure the qualification. Hockey India also announced the very dependable defender Deep Grace Ekka and experienced goalkeeper Savita as the two Vice Captains of the Women's Team. Both the players have been in the Indian Core Group for nearly a decade and have been an integral part of the leadership group. They also played a key role in India's feats which saw them attain career-best ranking of World No.9 in 2018 following a strong performance at the FIH Women's World Cup. ALSO READ: India protest 'unfair' Tokyo Olympic rules for Covid-hit nations Congratulating all three players named for their leadership roles, Indian Women's Team Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne said, "I congratulate Rani on being named the Captain of the Indian Women's Hockey Team for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. I also congratulate Deep Grace Ekka and Savita on being named the Vice Captains of the team. All these three players have been part of the leadership group for a long time and have proven their abilities with this added responsibility and have guided many youngsters in the Core Group. "Having two Vice Captains will also strengthen the core leadership group for the future. Their experience and role will be of importance as we aim to achieve good results in Tokyo. It has been a long journey for the team and we continue into a tough challenge at the Olympics. The team needs to be mentally strong and I am confident with these three players at the helm, they are headed in the right direction." Expressing her gratitude on being named Captain, Rani said, "It is a huge honour to lead the Indian Team at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. In these past years my role as a Captain was made easy with teammates who have shared the responsibilities as senior players. I look forward to this added responsibility and thank Hockey India, Coaching staff and selectors for this honour." Vice-captain Deep Grace Ekka too stated that this new responsibility will motivate her to ensure the team does well in Tokyo. "To lead India as Vice-Captain at the Olympics is a huge honour and it will surely motivate me further to do well for the team. We have players from different regions of India in the team, but we have come closer as a unit over these past 15 months during the pandemic which has been challenging for all," stated Grace who will be played her second Olympic Games. Savita also expressed her gratefulness as she said, "I thank the team's support staff and Hockey India for giving me this responsibility. We are all eagerly awaiting to do well at the Olympics in Tokyo, and it will be great to lead India to good wins."

Hockey India names Rani Rampal as captain of the Women's Hockey Team for Tokyo 2020

International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates arrived in Japan on Tuesday, as organisers ramp up final preparations with just over five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open.

Ahead of his arrival, several dozen people protested against the Games in Tokyo, though recent opinion polls suggest public opposition may be weakening.

Later Tuesday, organisers will release the final version of their virus countermeasures for athletes in a so-called "playbook" that they say will keep the event safe.

They have already announced measures including daily testing for athletes and GPS tracking of journalists coming from abroad, in an attempt to reassure a sceptical public.

National polls have regularly shown most people in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer, preferring either a postponement or cancellation.

But with the first foreign athletes already in the country and Olympic officials arriving, there is some evidence that opposition may be declining.

"I hope they will hold the Games with spectators," 54-year-old Michiyo Saito told AFP in Ota City, north of Tokyo, which is hosting Australia's softball team ahead of the Games.

Several hundred residents turned out Tuesday to watch the team train.

"They came from very far away, so I wanted to support them in any small way I can," Saito said.

"I am scared of the coronavirus. But as they seem to have anti-virus measures in place, I thought it would be OK."

<h2>- Emergency restrictions to end -</h2>

A survey in early June found half of the Japanese public back holding the Games, and a new poll published late Monday showed 64 percent now support it going ahead.

The new survey by national broadcaster NHK found 31 percent of respondents want the Games cancelled, down from 49 percent in May.

In all, 64 percent said they want the Games to go ahead -- including 29 percent who favour a ban on spectators, 32 percent who want limited spectators and three percent who want no restrictions on fans.

The poll did not give the option of postponement, which organisers have ruled out.

Coates will be in quarantine for three days, according to local media, and subject to some restrictions on his movement after that.

Japan's mandatory 14-day quarantine for overseas arrivals is being relaxed for Olympic participants.

But organisers insist that Tokyo 2020 will be safe, with athletes tested daily and prevented from contact with Japan's public.

Around 84 percent of athletes have already been vaccinated, Coates told the Australian Financial Review newspaper before departing for Tokyo.

"We can never get to 100 percent, I don't imagine, but if we can try and identify who hasn't been vaccinated and ensure they're vaccinated," he said.

Athletes from some Asian and African countries are being flown to Qatar for vaccines, while South American athletes are being flown to Miami and Houston for shots organised by the IOC, he said.

Overseas fans have already been barred from the Games, with a decision on how many domestic spectators will be allowed expected in late June.

The ruling will come after a virus state of emergency in Tokyo and other parts of the country, mainly requiring bars and restaurants to close early and stop serving alcohol, is lifted on June 20.

Kyodo news agency reported late Monday that the government could keep some restrictions in place in Tokyo during the Games, potentially limiting the number of spectators who could attend.

Japan has seen a smaller outbreak than many countries, with just over 14,000 deaths, but Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's government has come under fire for its response.

On Tuesday, opposition parties filed a motion of no confidence, but it is expected to fail given the government's large majority.

International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates arrived in Japan on Tuesday, as organisers ramp up final preparations with just over five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open.

International Olympic Committee vice-president John Coates arrived in Japan on Tuesday, as organisers ramp up final preparations with just over five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open. Ahead of his arrival, several dozen people protested against the Games in Tokyo, though recent opinion polls suggest public opposition may be weakening. Later Tuesday, organisers will release the final version of their virus countermeasures for athletes in a so-called "playbook" that they say will keep the event safe. They have already announced measures including daily testing for athletes and GPS tracking of journalists coming from abroad, in an attempt to reassure a sceptical public. National polls have regularly shown most people in Japan oppose holding the Games this summer, preferring either a postponement or cancellation. But with the first foreign athletes already in the country and Olympic officials arriving, there is some evidence that opposition may be declining. "I hope they will hold the Games with spectators," 54-year-old Michiyo Saito told AFP in Ota City, north of Tokyo, which is hosting Australia's softball team ahead of the Games. Several hundred residents turned out Tuesday to watch the team train. "They came from very far away, so I wanted to support them in any small way I can," Saito said. "I am scared of the coronavirus. But as they seem to have anti-virus measures in place, I thought it would be OK." - Emergency restrictions to end - A survey in early June found half of the Japanese public back holding the Games, and a new poll published late Monday showed 64 percent now support it going ahead. The new survey by national broadcaster NHK found 31 percent of respondents want the Games cancelled, down from 49 percent in May. In all, 64 percent said they want the Games to go ahead -- including 29 percent who favour a ban on spectators, 32 percent who want limited spectators and three percent who want no restrictions on fans. The poll did not give the option of postponement, which organisers have ruled out. Coates will be in quarantine for three days, according to local media, and subject to some restrictions on his movement after that. Japan's mandatory 14-day quarantine for overseas arrivals is being relaxed for Olympic participants. But organisers insist that Tokyo 2020 will be safe, with athletes tested daily and prevented from contact with Japan's public. Around 84 percent of athletes have already been vaccinated, Coates told the Australian Financial Review newspaper before departing for Tokyo. "We can never get to 100 percent, I don't imagine, but if we can try and identify who hasn't been vaccinated and ensure they're vaccinated," he said. Athletes from some Asian and African countries are being flown to Qatar for vaccines, while South American athletes are being flown to Miami and Houston for shots organised by the IOC, he said. Overseas fans have already been barred from the Games, with a decision on how many domestic spectators will be allowed expected in late June. The ruling will come after a virus state of emergency in Tokyo and other parts of the country, mainly requiring bars and restaurants to close early and stop serving alcohol, is lifted on June 20. Kyodo news agency reported late Monday that the government could keep some restrictions in place in Tokyo during the Games, potentially limiting the number of spectators who could attend. Japan has seen a smaller outbreak than many countries, with just over 14,000 deaths, but Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's government has come under fire for its response. On Tuesday, opposition parties filed a motion of no confidence, but it is expected to fail given the government's large majority.

IOC vice-president in Japan as Olympic preparations ramp up

India's Olympic contingent will be fully vaccinated by early July ahead of their journey to Tokyo for the Games, the country's top sports official Narinder Batra told AFP.

India will send nearly 200 athletes, coaches and support staff to the Tokyo Games scheduled to run from July 23 to August 8 after last year's event was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We had requested that all the national sports federations get their athletes vaccinated even though the IOC (International Olympic Committee) says it is not mandatory," the Indian Olympic Association president said.

"But we want our athletes to be safe and they should also be safe for others."

Batra said half of the contingent was partially vaccinated and the other half had received both doses.

"So by the first week of July the entire contingent -- athletes plus officials -- should be double vaccinated," he added.

Batra's comments come two days after his association dropped&nbsp;Chinese kit sponsor Li Ning following a public backlash when the uniforms were unveiled last week.

Tensions between India and China worsened after a deadly border encounter in June 2020. The clash sparked calls in India for a boycott of Chinese products and companies.

"We went by the public opinion that was formed on social media after that (kit unveiling)," Batra added.

"If we could find a sponsor before the end of June when things will need to close, then we will have one. Otherwise it remains unbranded."

China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Wednesday called on India to "avoid politicising issues".

<h2>- High hopes for hockey -</h2>

While the pandemic had made it harder for athletes to prepare for Tokyo, Batra said competitors from all nations faced the same challenges, making it a "level-playing field for all".

He stuck to his prediction that India would take home at least 10 medals from the Summer Games.

"Our athletes have been going on in their bio-bubbles or wherever they are training overseas. So there's no effect on our medal prospects and how we feel -- that is, double digits."

Four years ago, the team came home from Rio with just two medals, with badminton champion P.V. Sindhu clinching silver and wrestler Sakshi Malik winning bronze.

Batra, who was re-elected president of the International Hockey Federation last month, did not nominate the sports he thought would win gold, silver or bronze.

But he expressed high hopes for the men's and women's field hockey teams.

The men's team -- the most successful in Olympic history --&nbsp;has won eight Olympic golds, but have not finished in the final four since 1980.

The women's team has not won a medal since the sport became an Olympic event in 1980.

"I expect the men's team to definitely win a medal and I call the women's team a dark horse as they can be world beaters on any day," he said.

India's Olympic contingent will be fully vaccinated by early July ahead of their journey to Tokyo for the Games, the country's top sports official Narinder Batra told AFP.

India's Olympic contingent will be fully vaccinated by early July ahead of their journey to Tokyo for the Games, the country's top sports official Narinder Batra told AFP. India will send nearly 200 athletes, coaches and support staff to the Tokyo Games scheduled to run from July 23 to August 8 after last year's event was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. "We had requested that all the national sports federations get their athletes vaccinated even though the IOC (International Olympic Committee) says it is not mandatory," the Indian Olympic Association president said. "But we want our athletes to be safe and they should also be safe for others." Batra said half of the contingent was partially vaccinated and the other half had received both doses. "So by the first week of July the entire contingent -- athletes plus officials -- should be double vaccinated," he added. Batra's comments come two days after his association dropped Chinese kit sponsor Li Ning following a public backlash when the uniforms were unveiled last week. Tensions between India and China worsened after a deadly border encounter in June 2020. The clash sparked calls in India for a boycott of Chinese products and companies. "We went by the public opinion that was formed on social media after that (kit unveiling)," Batra added. "If we could find a sponsor before the end of June when things will need to close, then we will have one. Otherwise it remains unbranded." China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Wednesday called on India to "avoid politicising issues". - High hopes for hockey - While the pandemic had made it harder for athletes to prepare for Tokyo, Batra said competitors from all nations faced the same challenges, making it a "level-playing field for all". He stuck to his prediction that India would take home at least 10 medals from the Summer Games. "Our athletes have been going on in their bio-bubbles or wherever they are training overseas. So there's no effect on our medal prospects and how we feel -- that is, double digits." Four years ago, the team came home from Rio with just two medals, with badminton champion P.V. Sindhu clinching silver and wrestler Sakshi Malik winning bronze. Batra, who was re-elected president of the International Hockey Federation last month, did not nominate the sports he thought would win gold, silver or bronze. But he expressed high hopes for the men's and women's field hockey teams. The men's team -- the most successful in Olympic history -- has won eight Olympic golds, but have not finished in the final four since 1980. The women's team has not won a medal since the sport became an Olympic event in 1980. "I expect the men's team to definitely win a medal and I call the women's team a dark horse as they can be world beaters on any day," he said.

India's Olympic team to be fully vaccinated: sports chief

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo Olympics organisers are working to reassure the public that the quadrennial even can be safely held under stringent coronavirus rules. Notably, the 2020 Games open in just over six weeks and the local public has been skeptical about the event amid the COVID-19 situation in the city.<o:p></o:p>

Around 6,000 reporters are likely to visit Japan for the 2020 Olympics and must provide a detailed list of areas they are planning to visit in their first two weeks in Japan, such as sports venues and hotels.<o:p></o:p>

Tokyo 2020 chief said that the tracking technology would be used to ensure that the media only visit the places they are supposed to. <o:p></o:p>

"To make sure that people don't go to places other than the places where they are registered to go, we will use GPS to strictly manage their behaviour," Hashimoto said before a Tokyo 2020 executive board meeting.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-merciless-rafael-nadal-marches-into-the-quarter-finals-390087" hreflang="en">French Open: Merciless Rafael Nadal marches into the quarter-finals</a><o:p></o:p>

The overseas media will be urged to stay in designated hotels rather than private lodgings. Interestingly, the number of hotels are set to be reduced from the originally planned 350 to around 150 as the Games organisers continue to keep visitors under close supervision.<o:p></o:p>

Even athletes will also face strict restrictions on their movement besides being tested regularly for the dreaded virus. Overseas fans have already been banned from attending the mega event and a call on domestic spectators will be taken later in June.<o:p></o:p>

While Japan has seen a smaller COVID-19 outbreak than many countries, the vaccine roll-out in the country has been pretty slow with around 3.5 per cent of the population completely vaccinated thus far.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games.

Foreign journalists covering the Tokyo Olympics will be tracked by GPS, the Games president Seiko Hashimoto said on Tuesday. The media could have their passes cancelled if they break the COVID-19 protocols in place for the much-awaited Tokyo Games. Tokyo Olympics organisers are working to reassure the public that the quadrennial even can be safely held under stringent coronavirus rules. Notably, the 2020 Games open in just over six weeks and the local public has been skeptical about the event amid the COVID-19 situation in the city. Around 6,000 reporters are likely to visit Japan for the 2020 Olympics and must provide a detailed list of areas they are planning to visit in their first two weeks in Japan, such as sports venues and hotels. Tokyo 2020 chief said that the tracking technology would be used to ensure that the media only visit the places they are supposed to. "To make sure that people don't go to places other than the places where they are registered to go, we will use GPS to strictly manage their behaviour," Hashimoto said before a Tokyo 2020 executive board meeting. ALSO READ: French Open: Merciless Rafael Nadal marches into the quarter-finals The overseas media will be urged to stay in designated hotels rather than private lodgings. Interestingly, the number of hotels are set to be reduced from the originally planned 350 to around 150 as the Games organisers continue to keep visitors under close supervision. Even athletes will also face strict restrictions on their movement besides being tested regularly for the dreaded virus. Overseas fans have already been banned from attending the mega event and a call on domestic spectators will be taken later in June. While Japan has seen a smaller COVID-19 outbreak than many countries, the vaccine roll-out in the country has been pretty slow with around 3.5 per cent of the population completely vaccinated thus far.

Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed Indian athlete's preparedness for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics on Thursday and told the officials to get the athlete and support staff travelling for the games vaccinated as soon as possible.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-cant-say-field-becomes-easy-pv-sindhu-on-carolina-marins-withdrawal-from-tokyo-2020-389186" hreflang="en">Badminton- 'Can’t say field becomes easy': PV Sindhu on Carolina Marin's withdrawal from Tokyo 2020</a>

“From vaccination to training facilities, every need of our sportspersons must be fulfilled on top priority,” PM Modi told the officials, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office.

“While a total of 19 Indian athletes had participated at the last Paralympics in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro. 26 para-athletes have qualified (this year) and 16 more athletes are likely to qualify…,” the PMO statement said.

The Indian Prime Minister also said that he will talk to the contingent travelling to the Olympics in July to encourage them and wish them luck for the Summer Games.&nbsp;

Tokyo Olympics was postponed by a year due to a raging coronavirus pandemic. However, despite COVID fears still at large, Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto, on Thursday, said that the Games cannot be postponed again.&nbsp;

Seiko Hashimoto countered the gloom, telling the Nikkan Sports newspaper: "We cannot postpone again."

Hashimoto, who competed in seven summers and winter Olympics as a cyclist and skater, also told the BBC that while the Japanese were understandably worried, they should be reassured that a "bubble situation" was being carefully constructed.

"I believe that the possibility of these Games going on is 100 per cent that we will do this," she added. "One thing the organising committee commits and promises to all the athletes out there is that we will defend and protect their health."

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga also seemed confident of pulling off a successful Olympics and Paralympics as he plans a snap vote afterwards, the Asahi newspaper said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed Indian athlete's preparedness for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics on Thursday and told the officials to get the athlete and support staff travelling for the games vaccinated as soon as possible.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed Indian athlete's preparedness for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics on Thursday and told the officials to get the athlete and support staff travelling for the games vaccinated as soon as possible. ALSO READ: Badminton- 'Can’t say field becomes easy': PV Sindhu on Carolina Marin's withdrawal from Tokyo 2020 “From vaccination to training facilities, every need of our sportspersons must be fulfilled on top priority,” PM Modi told the officials, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office. “While a total of 19 Indian athletes had participated at the last Paralympics in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro. 26 para-athletes have qualified (this year) and 16 more athletes are likely to qualify…,” the PMO statement said. The Indian Prime Minister also said that he will talk to the contingent travelling to the Olympics in July to encourage them and wish them luck for the Summer Games. Tokyo Olympics was postponed by a year due to a raging coronavirus pandemic. However, despite COVID fears still at large, Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto, on Thursday, said that the Games cannot be postponed again. Seiko Hashimoto countered the gloom, telling the Nikkan Sports newspaper: "We cannot postpone again." Hashimoto, who competed in seven summers and winter Olympics as a cyclist and skater, also told the BBC that while the Japanese were understandably worried, they should be reassured that a "bubble situation" was being carefully constructed. "I believe that the possibility of these Games going on is 100 per cent that we will do this," she added. "One thing the organising committee commits and promises to all the athletes out there is that we will defend and protect their health." Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga also seemed confident of pulling off a successful Olympics and Paralympics as he plans a snap vote afterwards, the Asahi newspaper said.

Tokyo 2020: PM Narendra Modi directs officials to vaccinate athletes 'on top priority'

Tokyo Olympics fans may have to be vaccinated or test negative for the coronavirus before being allowed into venues, a Japanese newspaper report said Monday.

Cheering, eating, high-fives and drinking alcohol would also be banned under controls now being considered, the Yomiuri Shimbun daily said, citing unnamed government officials.

Organisers are set to decide in June how many spectators -- if any -- will be allowed to attend the pandemic-postponed Games.

Overseas fans are already barred, and the report warned domestic spectators may be denied entrance or kicked out for breaking the rules.

"The plan is to stop the spread of infections during Games time with strict countermeasures," the paper said.

Under the plan, spectators must be able to show a vaccination certificate or a negative test taken at their own expense less than a week before entering the venue.

They must wear masks and fill in health-check sheets, and once inside must not cheer loudly or high-five each other.

Security guards would be stationed around venues monitoring behaviour, the report said, with public viewing venues cancelled or scaled down.

Japan's vaccine rollout has been moving slowly, with less than 2.5 percent of the population fully vaccinated so far.

Tokyo and other parts of the country are under a virus state of emergency which was extended on Friday until June 20, just over a month before the opening ceremony on July 23.

The Yomiuri also published a new poll on Monday that shows 49 percent of people living in Tokyo want the Games to go ahead, while 48 percent want them cancelled.

A total of 25 percent said they wanted the Games to go ahead with a limited number of spectators, while 24 percent said they wanted them to be held with no fans.

A new country-wide poll by the Nikkei newspaper found that 62 percent of respondents wanted the Games to be cancelled or postponed again, while 34 percent were in favour of them being held this summer.

Organisers have repeatedly ruled out the Games being postponed again.

Tokyo Olympics fans may have to be vaccinated or test negative for the coronavirus before being allowed into venues, a Japanese newspaper report said Monday. Cheering, eating, high-fives and drinking alcohol would also be banned under controls now being considered, the Yomiuri Shimbun daily said, citing unnamed government officials.

Tokyo Olympics fans may have to be vaccinated or test negative for the coronavirus before being allowed into venues, a Japanese newspaper report said Monday. Cheering, eating, high-fives and drinking alcohol would also be banned under controls now being considered, the Yomiuri Shimbun daily said, citing unnamed government officials. Organisers are set to decide in June how many spectators -- if any -- will be allowed to attend the pandemic-postponed Games. Overseas fans are already barred, and the report warned domestic spectators may be denied entrance or kicked out for breaking the rules. "The plan is to stop the spread of infections during Games time with strict countermeasures," the paper said. Under the plan, spectators must be able to show a vaccination certificate or a negative test taken at their own expense less than a week before entering the venue. They must wear masks and fill in health-check sheets, and once inside must not cheer loudly or high-five each other. Security guards would be stationed around venues monitoring behaviour, the report said, with public viewing venues cancelled or scaled down. Japan's vaccine rollout has been moving slowly, with less than 2.5 percent of the population fully vaccinated so far. Tokyo and other parts of the country are under a virus state of emergency which was extended on Friday until June 20, just over a month before the opening ceremony on July 23. The Yomiuri also published a new poll on Monday that shows 49 percent of people living in Tokyo want the Games to go ahead, while 48 percent want them cancelled. A total of 25 percent said they wanted the Games to go ahead with a limited number of spectators, while 24 percent said they wanted them to be held with no fans. A new country-wide poll by the Nikkei newspaper found that 62 percent of respondents wanted the Games to be cancelled or postponed again, while 34 percent were in favour of them being held this summer. Organisers have repeatedly ruled out the Games being postponed again.

Tokyo Olympics fans to need vaccination or virus test: report

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

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

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

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

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Monday that he might consider skipping the Tokyo Olympics if the two-week sporting festival takes place without spectators.

Roger Federer also sounded less than sure if he would compete in Tokyo, following his return to Grand Slam action at the French Open on Monday.

Foreign visitors have already been banned and organizers are expected to make a decision next month on whether Japanese fans will be able to attend the Games, set to run between July 23 and Aug. 8., and under what conditions.

"I'm planning to play the Olympic Games for now. As I heard, there's going to be some crowd, local crowd from Japan only. As I understand, 20%, 30% of the capacity," Djokovic told reporters on the eve of his 2021 French Open debut.

"If they change something, if there's not going to be any crowd, then I'll consider if I want to go or not. Right now I am planning to go, and I'm very excited about that."

Federer, for whom an Olympic singles gold has remained elusive, said he was waiting to see how things develop.

"I don't know, I feel two ways. I would love to play. I wish things were better around the world that we wouldn't even have to debate the thought of is it going to happen, am I going to play or not?" he told reporters after beating Denis Istomin in the first round.

"My wish and hope and dream is that I can play it. But it needs to make sense for me, my team, my family, my country. I'm still waiting to see how things are going to develop in the next couple of weeks and months."

Russian Daniil Medvedev, the world number two, sounded upbeat about playing at the Olympics for the first time.

"It's going to be my first Olympic Games. We have a great team so we can do some doubles, mixed doubles, everything," he said. "Going to be an amazing experience. Of course, with COVID maybe it's not going to be the same as every year."

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Monday that he might consider skipping the Tokyo Olympics if the two-week sporting festival takes place without spectators.

World number one Novak Djokovic said on Monday that he might consider skipping the Tokyo Olympics if the two-week sporting festival takes place without spectators. Roger Federer also sounded less than sure if he would compete in Tokyo, following his return to Grand Slam action at the French Open on Monday. Foreign visitors have already been banned and organizers are expected to make a decision next month on whether Japanese fans will be able to attend the Games, set to run between July 23 and Aug. 8., and under what conditions. "I'm planning to play the Olympic Games for now. As I heard, there's going to be some crowd, local crowd from Japan only. As I understand, 20%, 30% of the capacity," Djokovic told reporters on the eve of his 2021 French Open debut. "If they change something, if there's not going to be any crowd, then I'll consider if I want to go or not. Right now I am planning to go, and I'm very excited about that." Federer, for whom an Olympic singles gold has remained elusive, said he was waiting to see how things develop. "I don't know, I feel two ways. I would love to play. I wish things were better around the world that we wouldn't even have to debate the thought of is it going to happen, am I going to play or not?" he told reporters after beating Denis Istomin in the first round. "My wish and hope and dream is that I can play it. But it needs to make sense for me, my team, my family, my country. I'm still waiting to see how things are going to develop in the next couple of weeks and months." Russian Daniil Medvedev, the world number two, sounded upbeat about playing at the Olympics for the first time. "It's going to be my first Olympic Games. We have a great team so we can do some doubles, mixed doubles, everything," he said. "Going to be an amazing experience. Of course, with COVID maybe it's not going to be the same as every year."

Tennis: Novak Djokovic says Olympics bid depends on fans presence, Roger Federer unsure

Japan is looking to extend a state of emergency in Tokyo and other areas by about three weeks to June 20, a cabinet minister said on Friday, as the COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of easing less than two months before the Summer Olympics open.

The state of emergency in the capital and eight other prefectures had been scheduled to end on May 31, but strains on the medical system https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/beset-by-coronavirus-wave-tokyos-doctors-lead-push-against-games-2021-05-26 remain severe. Japan's southern island of Okinawa is already under a state of emergency set to end on June 20.

Japan has seen a record number of COVID-19 patients in critical condition in recent days, even as the number of new infections has slowed.

"In Osaka and Tokyo, the flow of people is starting to creep up, and there are concerns that infections will rise," Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who also heads the country's coronavirus countermeasures, said at the start of a meeting with experts.

The experts later approved the government proposal and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to officially announce the extended state of emergency later on Friday.

Worries about variants of the novel coronavirus and a slow vaccination drive have prompted urgent calls from doctors, some high-profile business leaders and hundreds of thousands of citizens to cancel the Olympic Games, due to start on July 23.

Japanese officials, Olympics organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have said the Games would go ahead under strict virus-prevention measures. IOC Vice President John Coates, who oversees the preparations, said last week the Games were on https://www.reuters.com/article/olympics-2020-idCNL2N2N80BL whether or not the host city, Tokyo, is under an emergency state at the time.

Japan has recorded about 727,000 coronavirus infections and 12,597 deaths so far. About 6% of its population has been vaccinated, according to Reuters data, https://tmsnrt.rs/3uqFNWb the lowest among the world's larger, rich countries.

ANGER MOUNTS

Comments by IOC officials appearing to dismiss Japanese concerns have sparked outrage on social media, including IOC President Thomas Bach telling an International Athletes Forum on Thursday: "Come with full confidence to Tokyo and get ready".

"I want to say 'shut up'," said one Twitter user. "Let's beat up on the IOC, which denigrates Japan, and halt these crazy Olympics."

Polls show a majority of Japanese want the Games, postponed last year due to COVID-19, either cancelled or put off again.

That is a worry for Suga, whose support has slid over his handling of the response to COVID-19 and who faces a general election and a ruling party leadership race later this year.

But cancellation would carry its own political risk for the premier, some ruling party lawmakers said.

"The demerits would outweigh the merits," Liberal Democratic Party MP Hajime Funada told Reuters. "It would give the impression that Japan is in such dire straits in cannot hold the Games."

In a joint statement after a summit on Thursday, the European Union and Japan backed Tokyo's hosting of the Olympic Games this year.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union had authorised the export to Japan of more than 100 million vaccine doses, enough to inoculate about 40% of the population. "We have of course said we are looking forward to the Olympics Games," she told a news conference.

Japan is looking to extend a state of emergency in Tokyo and other areas by about three weeks to June 20, a cabinet minister said on Friday, as the COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of easing less than two months before the Summer Olympics open.

Japan is looking to extend a state of emergency in Tokyo and other areas by about three weeks to June 20, a cabinet minister said on Friday, as the COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of easing less than two months before the Summer Olympics open. The state of emergency in the capital and eight other prefectures had been scheduled to end on May 31, but strains on the medical system https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/beset-by-coronavirus-wave-tokyos-doctors-lead-push-against-games-2021-05-26 remain severe. Japan's southern island of Okinawa is already under a state of emergency set to end on June 20. Japan has seen a record number of COVID-19 patients in critical condition in recent days, even as the number of new infections has slowed. "In Osaka and Tokyo, the flow of people is starting to creep up, and there are concerns that infections will rise," Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who also heads the country's coronavirus countermeasures, said at the start of a meeting with experts. The experts later approved the government proposal and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to officially announce the extended state of emergency later on Friday. Worries about variants of the novel coronavirus and a slow vaccination drive have prompted urgent calls from doctors, some high-profile business leaders and hundreds of thousands of citizens to cancel the Olympic Games, due to start on July 23. Japanese officials, Olympics organisers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have said the Games would go ahead under strict virus-prevention measures. IOC Vice President John Coates, who oversees the preparations, said last week the Games were on https://www.reuters.com/article/olympics-2020-idCNL2N2N80BL whether or not the host city, Tokyo, is under an emergency state at the time. Japan has recorded about 727,000 coronavirus infections and 12,597 deaths so far. About 6% of its population has been vaccinated, according to Reuters data, https://tmsnrt.rs/3uqFNWb the lowest among the world's larger, rich countries. ANGER MOUNTS Comments by IOC officials appearing to dismiss Japanese concerns have sparked outrage on social media, including IOC President Thomas Bach telling an International Athletes Forum on Thursday: "Come with full confidence to Tokyo and get ready". "I want to say 'shut up'," said one Twitter user. "Let's beat up on the IOC, which denigrates Japan, and halt these crazy Olympics." Polls show a majority of Japanese want the Games, postponed last year due to COVID-19, either cancelled or put off again. That is a worry for Suga, whose support has slid over his handling of the response to COVID-19 and who faces a general election and a ruling party leadership race later this year. But cancellation would carry its own political risk for the premier, some ruling party lawmakers said. "The demerits would outweigh the merits," Liberal Democratic Party MP Hajime Funada told Reuters. "It would give the impression that Japan is in such dire straits in cannot hold the Games." In a joint statement after a summit on Thursday, the European Union and Japan backed Tokyo's hosting of the Olympic Games this year. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union had authorised the export to Japan of more than 100 million vaccine doses, enough to inoculate about 40% of the population. "We have of course said we are looking forward to the Olympics Games," she told a news conference.

Olympics: Japan looks to extend COVID-19 states of emergency ahead of Games

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

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

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

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

Full stadiums will be "very difficult" at the Tokyo Olympics, the head of the Games warned Wednesday, as organisers pushed back a decision on how many domestic fans can attend until June.

Overseas spectators have already been barred from the Games for the first time, and a ruling on Japan-based fans was expected by the end of this month.

But with parts of the country including Tokyo under a coronavirus state of emergency, organisers said they needed more time. The Games open in less than three months on July 23.

"As we look into the evolving situation with the domestic infections status involving new strains, we have agreed that a decision regarding spectator capacity at the Olympic and Paralympic venues will be made in June," Olympic officials said after top-level talks.

Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto said it was now unlikely that fans would fill venues as in past Olympics.

"We have to watch the situation and consider accordingly. As of now, full venues is very difficult, I understand that," she said.

"There may be a time that we have to decide on the Games behind closed doors, no spectators," she added.

But "to the extent possible, as many people as possible should be able to enjoy the Tokyo Games".

Organisers also announced new virus rules for athletes including daily antigen virus testing -- up from a previous plan for tests every four days.

Unclear or positive results will be followed up with additional tests to confirm.

"If you have a confirmed positive test for Covid-19 during the Games... you will not be allowed to compete," an updated virus rule book warns.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'All necessary measures' -</h2>

&nbsp;

Those deemed "close contacts" of any athlete testing positive may still be able to compete, with their situation assessed on a "case-by-case basis" and depending on "the likelihood of you spreading the virus", the guide added.

Athletes are encouraged, but not required, to get vaccinated before the Games, and the restrictions will still apply to those who are inoculated.

Olympic organisers hope that bolstering virus rules for the Games will help build support in Japan, where polls show most people back either a cancellation or further delay.

Updates to the rules for other Games participants including thousands of foreign media are expected on Friday.

"We are ready with you to take all the necessary measures to minimise the risks to make the Japanese people feel safe," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said at the start of talks with organisers and Japanese officials.

"Our top priority is health and safety for everyone –- not only for the participants of the Olympic Games but, first and foremost, also of our gracious hosts, the Japanese people."

Those violating the rules will face a disciplinary committee and could be stripped of their right to compete.

Japan has seen a comparatively minor virus outbreak, with just over 10,000 deaths, but it is now battling what experts call a fourth wave of cases.

<h2>- 'People are anxious' -</h2>

A new state of emergency was imposed on Tokyo and three other areas on April 25, and the government's top medical adviser warned Wednesday that discussions should start soon on how the Games could be held if infections remain high by the summer.

"What's very important is the situation of the infections and how overwhelmed the medical system is," Shigeru Omi told parliament in response to a question from an opposition lawmaker.

"I think it is time to discuss the Olympics," he added, while stopping short of calling for either a postponement or cancellation.

Olympic officials insist the Games can still be held safely, with Hashimoto last week saying organisers are "not thinking about cancellation".

And Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto also ruled out a further delay to the Games on Wednesday.

"That's something we've never discussed with the IOC or others," he said, noting that the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and 2024 Paris Games leave little room for further postponement.

Hashimoto also defended the decision to keep moving ahead, telling reporters "there are so many people who are looking forward to the Games", while acknowledging "there are a lot of people who are anxious".

"That's the reality, and we need to look at both sides," she added.

Olympic chiefs took the unprecedented decision to ban overseas fans in March, in a bid to reduce virus risks.&nbsp;

Domestic ticket sales have not yet resumed after last year's postponement. Organisers said around 4.48 million tickets had been sold in Japan, and nearly a million for the Paralympics.

Tickets purchased by overseas fans are being refunded, and organisers have also said that anyone who bought tickets in Japan is eligible for a refund if crowd numbers are cut.

nf-amk-sah/kaf/jfx

Full stadiums will be "very difficult" at the Tokyo Olympics, the head of the Games warned Wednesday, as organisers pushed back a decision on how many domestic fans can attend until June.

Full stadiums will be "very difficult" at the Tokyo Olympics, the head of the Games warned Wednesday, as organisers pushed back a decision on how many domestic fans can attend until June. Overseas spectators have already been barred from the Games for the first time, and a ruling on Japan-based fans was expected by the end of this month. But with parts of the country including Tokyo under a coronavirus state of emergency, organisers said they needed more time. The Games open in less than three months on July 23. "As we look into the evolving situation with the domestic infections status involving new strains, we have agreed that a decision regarding spectator capacity at the Olympic and Paralympic venues will be made in June," Olympic officials said after top-level talks. Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto said it was now unlikely that fans would fill venues as in past Olympics. "We have to watch the situation and consider accordingly. As of now, full venues is very difficult, I understand that," she said. "There may be a time that we have to decide on the Games behind closed doors, no spectators," she added. But "to the extent possible, as many people as possible should be able to enjoy the Tokyo Games". Organisers also announced new virus rules for athletes including daily antigen virus testing -- up from a previous plan for tests every four days. Unclear or positive results will be followed up with additional tests to confirm. "If you have a confirmed positive test for Covid-19 during the Games... you will not be allowed to compete," an updated virus rule book warns. - 'All necessary measures' - Those deemed "close contacts" of any athlete testing positive may still be able to compete, with their situation assessed on a "case-by-case basis" and depending on "the likelihood of you spreading the virus", the guide added. Athletes are encouraged, but not required, to get vaccinated before the Games, and the restrictions will still apply to those who are inoculated. Olympic organisers hope that bolstering virus rules for the Games will help build support in Japan, where polls show most people back either a cancellation or further delay. Updates to the rules for other Games participants including thousands of foreign media are expected on Friday. "We are ready with you to take all the necessary measures to minimise the risks to make the Japanese people feel safe," International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach said at the start of talks with organisers and Japanese officials. "Our top priority is health and safety for everyone –- not only for the participants of the Olympic Games but, first and foremost, also of our gracious hosts, the Japanese people." Those violating the rules will face a disciplinary committee and could be stripped of their right to compete. Japan has seen a comparatively minor virus outbreak, with just over 10,000 deaths, but it is now battling what experts call a fourth wave of cases. - 'People are anxious' - A new state of emergency was imposed on Tokyo and three other areas on April 25, and the government's top medical adviser warned Wednesday that discussions should start soon on how the Games could be held if infections remain high by the summer. "What's very important is the situation of the infections and how overwhelmed the medical system is," Shigeru Omi told parliament in response to a question from an opposition lawmaker. "I think it is time to discuss the Olympics," he added, while stopping short of calling for either a postponement or cancellation. Olympic officials insist the Games can still be held safely, with Hashimoto last week saying organisers are "not thinking about cancellation". And Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto also ruled out a further delay to the Games on Wednesday. "That's something we've never discussed with the IOC or others," he said, noting that the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and 2024 Paris Games leave little room for further postponement. Hashimoto also defended the decision to keep moving ahead, telling reporters "there are so many people who are looking forward to the Games", while acknowledging "there are a lot of people who are anxious". "That's the reality, and we need to look at both sides," she added. Olympic chiefs took the unprecedented decision to ban overseas fans in March, in a bid to reduce virus risks. Domestic ticket sales have not yet resumed after last year's postponement. Organisers said around 4.48 million tickets had been sold in Japan, and nearly a million for the Paralympics. Tickets purchased by overseas fans are being refunded, and organisers have also said that anyone who bought tickets in Japan is eligible for a refund if crowd numbers are cut. nf-amk-sah/kaf/jfx

Full venues at Tokyo Olympics 'very difficult': organisers

Hundreds of Japanese towns and cities have been forced to rethink plans to host Olympic teams because the coronavirus will prevent public appearances and require costly safety measures.

The western town of Okuizumo spent more than $5 million preparing to welcome India's hockey team for a pre-Games training camp, only to scrap the visit because of Covid-19.

After sinking money into upgrading sports facilities, Okuizomo balked when it became clear it would have to provide bubble-like biosecurity measures with regular virus tests and medical care.

"We wanted to have one of the world's top tier teams visit our town and show their skills to local children," town official Katsumi Nagase told AFP.

"But that seems impossible now."

More than 500 municipalities signed up to host athletes and officials in a scheme aimed at broadening the Olympics' benefits beyond Tokyo.

Some, like Okuizumo, have already scrapped plans to host overseas athletes, while others are devising careful programmes they hope will keep everyone safe.

Instead of giving residents the chance to meet elite athletes and try out new sports, towns will have to ditch any physical contact, school visits and public training sessions.

Kurihara city in northern Miyagi prefecture was planning to host South Africa's hockey team, but decided the expense was no longer worth it given the limitations imposed by virus measures.

"It's a project that will use our tax resources," Hidenori Sasaki, an official with the local board of education, told AFP.

"If it becomes just athletes holding a training camp without any exchanges with local residents, local citizens won't enjoy the benefits."

In some cases, Olympic teams have cancelled, worried about the risk of infection before the Games.

Australia's swimming team ditched its plan to train in Niigata's Nagaoka city, its mayor told &nbsp;media in March.

And Canada's table tennis team will no longer go to Nagano's Okaya city, which instead plans to put posters of athletes around town, said Tomoko Hirose of the city's planning division.

"Our cheering may become a one-way engagement, without physical exchanges, but given the situation, we just have to move on," she told AFP.

<h2>- Limited contact -</h2>

Not all host towns have given up on their plans.

Tsuruoka city in northern Yamagata prefecture will host several dozen Olympic and Paralympic athletes and officials from Moldova and Germany.

The city has had ties for years with Moldova, said Takayuki Ito, an official with the city's board of education.

"What's important for us is to continue our exchanges," Ito told AFP, describing recent online archery competitions held with Moldovans.

"There are things you can do without spending a lot of money," Ito said.&nbsp;"We have a good feeling about our programme."

But it won't be simple. The athletes will stay in their own dormitory and move only along designated routes to gyms and training fields, avoiding contact with residents.

In western Tottori, Yonago city will host several dozen people from Jamaica's swimming, gymnastics and Paralympic boat teams.

The city has had ties with Jamaica since 2015, and believes its host duties will strengthen that bond, said Kyohei Takahashi at the city's sports promotion division.

The athletes will be on a designated floor and use a staff elevator of their hotel, avoiding the lobby and main entrance to limit contact.

They will also be offered frequent virus testing, as well as designated routes to gyms and pools.

"We planned very early," Takahashi said.

"We won't be able to have exchanges with athletes this time. But the legacy will remain," he added.

Hundreds of Japanese towns and cities have been forced to rethink plans to host Olympic teams because the coronavirus will prevent public appearances and require costly safety measures.

Hundreds of Japanese towns and cities have been forced to rethink plans to host Olympic teams because the coronavirus will prevent public appearances and require costly safety measures. The western town of Okuizumo spent more than $5 million preparing to welcome India's hockey team for a pre-Games training camp, only to scrap the visit because of Covid-19. After sinking money into upgrading sports facilities, Okuizomo balked when it became clear it would have to provide bubble-like biosecurity measures with regular virus tests and medical care. "We wanted to have one of the world's top tier teams visit our town and show their skills to local children," town official Katsumi Nagase told AFP. "But that seems impossible now." More than 500 municipalities signed up to host athletes and officials in a scheme aimed at broadening the Olympics' benefits beyond Tokyo. Some, like Okuizumo, have already scrapped plans to host overseas athletes, while others are devising careful programmes they hope will keep everyone safe. Instead of giving residents the chance to meet elite athletes and try out new sports, towns will have to ditch any physical contact, school visits and public training sessions. Kurihara city in northern Miyagi prefecture was planning to host South Africa's hockey team, but decided the expense was no longer worth it given the limitations imposed by virus measures. "It's a project that will use our tax resources," Hidenori Sasaki, an official with the local board of education, told AFP. "If it becomes just athletes holding a training camp without any exchanges with local residents, local citizens won't enjoy the benefits." In some cases, Olympic teams have cancelled, worried about the risk of infection before the Games. Australia's swimming team ditched its plan to train in Niigata's Nagaoka city, its mayor told media in March. And Canada's table tennis team will no longer go to Nagano's Okaya city, which instead plans to put posters of athletes around town, said Tomoko Hirose of the city's planning division. "Our cheering may become a one-way engagement, without physical exchanges, but given the situation, we just have to move on," she told AFP. - Limited contact - Not all host towns have given up on their plans. Tsuruoka city in northern Yamagata prefecture will host several dozen Olympic and Paralympic athletes and officials from Moldova and Germany. The city has had ties for years with Moldova, said Takayuki Ito, an official with the city's board of education. "What's important for us is to continue our exchanges," Ito told AFP, describing recent online archery competitions held with Moldovans. "There are things you can do without spending a lot of money," Ito said. "We have a good feeling about our programme." But it won't be simple. The athletes will stay in their own dormitory and move only along designated routes to gyms and training fields, avoiding contact with residents. In western Tottori, Yonago city will host several dozen people from Jamaica's swimming, gymnastics and Paralympic boat teams. The city has had ties with Jamaica since 2015, and believes its host duties will strengthen that bond, said Kyohei Takahashi at the city's sports promotion division. The athletes will be on a designated floor and use a staff elevator of their hotel, avoiding the lobby and main entrance to limit contact. They will also be offered frequent virus testing, as well as designated routes to gyms and pools. "We planned very early," Takahashi said. "We won't be able to have exchanges with athletes this time. But the legacy will remain," he added.

'Impossible now' - Japan's Olympic host towns pull out over pandemic

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.

Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan.

"If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference.

On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring.

"I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote.

"But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult."

Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad."

"Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote.

The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23.

The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead.

New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka.

The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka.

Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away.

Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe.

They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing.

But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants.

Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled.&nbsp;

Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned. Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan. "If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference. On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring. "I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote. "But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult." Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad." "Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote. The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23. The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead. New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka. Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away. Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe. They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing. But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants. Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled. Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.

Olympics 'difficult' after virus spikes, Japan medical group warns

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday.

The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests.

The two-day water polo event was supposed to open on Saturday, but has been scrapped because of Japan's strict travel regulations, which bar virtually all foreign nationals from entering the country, local media reported.

The restrictions mean time-keepers and record-keepers who were due to travel to Japan cannot take part in the event, although Kyodo news agency said it may be rescheduled to a later date.

Tokyo Olympics organisers declined to comment.

Test events for the virus-delayed Games resumed last weekend for the first time since the pandemic began, with a wheelchair rugby event held at Tokyo's Yoyogi National Stadium.

But there are doubts over whether the remaining 17 test events can be held as scheduled.

Last week, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) said it was considering moving its Olympic qualifiers from Japan.

Those events include the Diving World Cup scheduled for this month and the Artistic Swimming qualifier scheduled for May.

FINA's competition calendar already lists both events, along with the May 29-30 Olympic marathon swim qualifier in Japan's Fukuoka, as cancelled.

The governing body reportedly told member nations last week that it had received "worrying" information about the organiser's proposed Covid-19 countermeasures.

On Monday, the Japan Triathlon Union also announced that a triathlon World Cup event due to be held in Osaka in May has been cancelled because of virus restrictions.

The competition was not an Olympic test event but helps decide which athletes will qualify for the Games, and was meant to feature 130 triathletes from 30 different countries.

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday. The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests.

A Tokyo Olympics water polo test event has been cancelled because sport officials cannot enter Japan due to coronavirus restrictions, reports said Tuesday. The event is only the latest victim of virus restrictions, which have forced the cancellation or postponement of a series of Olympic qualifiers and tests. The two-day water polo event was supposed to open on Saturday, but has been scrapped because of Japan's strict travel regulations, which bar virtually all foreign nationals from entering the country, local media reported. The restrictions mean time-keepers and record-keepers who were due to travel to Japan cannot take part in the event, although Kyodo news agency said it may be rescheduled to a later date. Tokyo Olympics organisers declined to comment. Test events for the virus-delayed Games resumed last weekend for the first time since the pandemic began, with a wheelchair rugby event held at Tokyo's Yoyogi National Stadium. But there are doubts over whether the remaining 17 test events can be held as scheduled. Last week, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) said it was considering moving its Olympic qualifiers from Japan. Those events include the Diving World Cup scheduled for this month and the Artistic Swimming qualifier scheduled for May. FINA's competition calendar already lists both events, along with the May 29-30 Olympic marathon swim qualifier in Japan's Fukuoka, as cancelled. The governing body reportedly told member nations last week that it had received "worrying" information about the organiser's proposed Covid-19 countermeasures. On Monday, the Japan Triathlon Union also announced that a triathlon World Cup event due to be held in Osaka in May has been cancelled because of virus restrictions. The competition was not an Olympic test event but helps decide which athletes will qualify for the Games, and was meant to feature 130 triathletes from 30 different countries.

Tokyo Olympics test event cancelled over virus: reports

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

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

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

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

The starting ceremony for this month's Olympic torch relay will likely be held without spectators, a Japanese newspaper reported Tuesday, but fans will still be able to line the route.

The Yomiuri Shimbun daily reported that organisers fear crowding at the March 25 event in Fukushima, and will probably bar the 3,000 spectators initially planned.

Tokyo 2020 organisers did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report, which cited an unnamed source.

The organisers have already laid out strict rules for the virus-delayed, nationwide relay, which was called off in 2020 after the historic decision to postpone the Games by a year.

Cheering along the relay route will be strictly banned, and people are asked to only attend sections near their homes and avoid crowding.

Mask-wearing will be mandatory, and spectators are asked to offer "support with applause and by using distributed goods rather than shouting or cheering".

Portions of the relay could also be suspended if there is overcrowding.

Organisers are battling persistent doubts about whether the Games can be held safely this summer and have unveiled a rulebook with various virus countermeasures.

They are set to decide this month on whether foreign fans will be able to attend, with limits on overall spectator numbers to be set next month.

The starting ceremony for this month's Olympic torch relay will likely be held without spectators, a Japanese newspaper reported Tuesday, but fans will still be able to line the route.

The starting ceremony for this month's Olympic torch relay will likely be held without spectators, a Japanese newspaper reported Tuesday, but fans will still be able to line the route. The Yomiuri Shimbun daily reported that organisers fear crowding at the March 25 event in Fukushima, and will probably bar the 3,000 spectators initially planned. Tokyo 2020 organisers did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report, which cited an unnamed source. The organisers have already laid out strict rules for the virus-delayed, nationwide relay, which was called off in 2020 after the historic decision to postpone the Games by a year. Cheering along the relay route will be strictly banned, and people are asked to only attend sections near their homes and avoid crowding. Mask-wearing will be mandatory, and spectators are asked to offer "support with applause and by using distributed goods rather than shouting or cheering". Portions of the relay could also be suspended if there is overcrowding. Organisers are battling persistent doubts about whether the Games can be held safely this summer and have unveiled a rulebook with various virus countermeasures. They are set to decide this month on whether foreign fans will be able to attend, with limits on overall spectator numbers to be set next month.

Fans likely to be barred from Olympic torch relay start: Reports

An overwhelming majority of Japanese said they were "interested in the Olympics", although 58% said they did not want them to be held this year because of fears over COVID-19, a Yomiuri daily poll showed on Wednesday.

In the survey, conducted between Jan. 18 and Feb. 25, when much of the country remained in a coronavirus state of emergency, 30% of the respondents said they were "very interested" in the Summer Games and 40% said they were "somewhat interested", for a combined 70%.

But concerns over the impact on coronavirus infections kept most opposed to holding the event this year, although the 58% in opposition is about 20 percentage points lower than earlier opinion polls.

If the Games were to go ahead as scheduled, 91% of respondents said spectators should be kept to a minimum or not allowed at all, the Yomiuri poll showed.

The Tokyo Olympic Games were postponed last year because of the pandemic and rescheduled to take place this year from July 23.

A survey by global consultancy Kekst CNC published on Wednesday showed similar rates of majority opposition in Japan, at 56%, as well as in Britain and Germany, at 55% and 52% respectively.

In France and Sweden, more people opposed than approved, while in the United States, respondents were split at one-third between those who agreed and disagreed that the Games should go ahead, according to the survey.

While coronavirus infection numbers are low in Japan compared with the United States and many European countries, the greater Tokyo metropolitan area remains in a state of emergency, with restrictions in place for spectator numbers for big sporting and cultural events, as well as closing times for bars and restaurants. The country remains closed to non-resident foreigners.

A Reuters poll published last month showed nearly two-thirds of Japanese companies also oppose holding the Games as planned, swinging from the previous survey showing most in favour.

Japan has so far confirmed 431,250 coronavirus cases and 7,931 deaths as of Monday.

An overwhelming majority of Japanese said they were "interested in the Olympics", although 58% said they did not want them to be held this year because of fears over COVID-19, a Yomiuri daily poll showed on Wednesday.

An overwhelming majority of Japanese said they were "interested in the Olympics", although 58% said they did not want them to be held this year because of fears over COVID-19, a Yomiuri daily poll showed on Wednesday. In the survey, conducted between Jan. 18 and Feb. 25, when much of the country remained in a coronavirus state of emergency, 30% of the respondents said they were "very interested" in the Summer Games and 40% said they were "somewhat interested", for a combined 70%. But concerns over the impact on coronavirus infections kept most opposed to holding the event this year, although the 58% in opposition is about 20 percentage points lower than earlier opinion polls. If the Games were to go ahead as scheduled, 91% of respondents said spectators should be kept to a minimum or not allowed at all, the Yomiuri poll showed. The Tokyo Olympic Games were postponed last year because of the pandemic and rescheduled to take place this year from July 23. A survey by global consultancy Kekst CNC published on Wednesday showed similar rates of majority opposition in Japan, at 56%, as well as in Britain and Germany, at 55% and 52% respectively. In France and Sweden, more people opposed than approved, while in the United States, respondents were split at one-third between those who agreed and disagreed that the Games should go ahead, according to the survey. While coronavirus infection numbers are low in Japan compared with the United States and many European countries, the greater Tokyo metropolitan area remains in a state of emergency, with restrictions in place for spectator numbers for big sporting and cultural events, as well as closing times for bars and restaurants. The country remains closed to non-resident foreigners. A Reuters poll published last month showed nearly two-thirds of Japanese companies also oppose holding the Games as planned, swinging from the previous survey showing most in favour. Japan has so far confirmed 431,250 coronavirus cases and 7,931 deaths as of Monday.

Most in Japan 'interested in Olympics' but don't want them to happen, finds poll

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