Just leave no doubt. The International Olympic Committee, after consultations with the world sports organizations, confirms that it will continue to hold the Tokyo Games. Any speculation at the moment would be counterproductive, the IOC said.
Lausanne (AP) - The International Olympic Committee remains on course and continues to host the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
"The IOC remains fully committed to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games," said the IOC after a conference call by the Executive Committee on how to proceed in the corona crisis with athlete representatives, the National Olympic Committee and international associations.
"With more than four months remaining until the games, no drastic decisions are required at this time," the IOC release said. "Any speculation at the moment would be counterproductive." The Tokyo games are scheduled to open on July 24th.
"All measures are taken to protect the safety and interests of the athletes, coaches and support teams," said IOC President Thomas Bach. "We are an Olympic community. We support each other in good and difficult times."
According to the IOC, the situation around the Covid 19 virus is also affecting the preparations for the summer games in Japan's capital. "The IOC encourages all athletes to continue to prepare for the Olympic Games as best they can. They would always be provided with the latest information and developments." The IOC is confident that the many measures taken by authorities around the world have been taken will help to contain the situation of the Covid-19 virus, "it said.
The IOC emphasized that it wanted to continue acting responsibly and had agreed overriding principles for the organization of the games in Tokyo. The first priority is to protect the health of everyone involved and to help contain the virus. In addition, the interests of athletes and Olympic sports should be safeguarded. "The IOC will continue to monitor the situation around the clock," the statement said.
In addition, the IOC stressed that the decision to stick to the games was "not determined by financial interests". "Because thanks to its risk management policy and insurance, it will be able to continue its work and fulfill its mandate to organize the Olympic Games," said the IOC. Furthermore, the conditions for the preparation for the Tokyo games would be analyzed. "There are alternative plans in the event of a possible disruption," said the IOC.
IOC information for Tokyo 2020
IOC release