IOC ‘fully committed’ to Tokyo 2020 Olympics going ahead as planned despite coronavirus concerns

Japan’s Olympic minister had stoked speculation that the Games could be delayed until later this year

The International Olympic Committee remains fully committed to staging the Tokyo 2020 Games as scheduled this summer despite concerns that the coronavirus outbreak could force a delay.

Organisers will continue to take advice from the World Health Organisation as the July 24 start date approaches.

A statement from the IOC’s executive board said: “The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB) today expressed its full commitment to the success of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, taking place from 24 July to 9 August 2020.

“The IOC EB heard a report on all the measures taken so far to address the coronavirus situation, which was followed by a comprehensive discussion.

“A joint task force had already been created in mid-February, involving the IOC, Tokyo 2020, the host city of Tokyo, the government of Japan and the World Health Organization (WHO). The IOC EB appreciates and supports the measures being taken, which constitute an important part of Tokyo’s plans to host safe and secure Games.”

The statement continued: “The IOC will continue to follow the advice of WHO, as the leading United Nations agency on this topic. The IOC EB expressed its thanks to WHO for its continued valuable advice and cooperation.

“It also praised the great unity and solidarity of the athletes, National Olympic Committees, International Federations and governments. It welcomed their close collaboration and flexibility with regard to the preparations for the Games, and particularly the qualification events. All stakeholders continue to work closely together to address the challenges of the coronavirus.

“The IOC EB encourages all athletes to continue to prepare for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. The IOC will keep supporting the athletes by providing the latest information and developments, which are accessible for athletes worldwide on the Athlete365 website.”

Speculation that the Games could be postponed until later in the year mounted on Tuesday after Japan’s Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto told parliament that the government’s agreement with the IOC could allow a delay to the event.

PA