If the French supporters will not take off from France to reach Tokyo, those residing in Japan are ready to give their voice this summer.
"If I have the possibility to participate as a spectator, I will do so because it will be necessary to show a French presence", explains Jean-Philippe, living in Japan.
Bruno Leroy, president of the AFRC (All France Rugby Club) in Tokyo, already has a few sports in mind that he would like to attend.
“Sevens rugby, of course, but also volleyball, handball and fencing.
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A desire that is not acted for the moment, in view of the unclear situation concerning the reception or not of the public in general.
“We are in the dark about spectators for the Games,” explains Jean-Philippe.
We have had no information from the organizing committee yet.
Tickets were all sold out last year in anticipation of the 2020 edition and given the long-standing uncertainty about whether or not the Olympics will be held this year, many Japanese spectators have already been reimbursed for their tickets. .
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Many want to participate as volunteers
In the unknown in the face of a potential behind closed doors, some opt for participation in the event, such as Frédéric and Nicole, settled in Japan since 1994. “Nicole would like to participate in the opening ceremony.
As for me, I am already volunteering to help with translations from the mixed zone to the budokan, where the judo and karate events will take place next summer.
The team supervising the volunteers offers us activities every week, so I can be sure to participate, ”explains Frédéric.
“Regarding the possibility of attending the Games as spectators, yes, if it is possible, we will be there.
But this will depend on several factors, if there is a resale of refunded or unsold tickets or if access to the Games is only for people who have been vaccinated, for example.
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Mathilde, a student at Sciences-po Lille and living in Tokyo this year, would also like to take part in the event: “If all goes well, I am participating as a volunteer at Club France for the Games.
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But if the French seem ready to encourage the Tricolores and make the voices of supporters of France, this question is not at the heart of the debates among the Japanese.
“Here, even a few months before the opening, this is not a subject that concerns the population.
Japanese opposition to the Olympics is very strong.
People are more concerned about Covid-19 and its economic repercussions than about hosting the Games.
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