Tokyo Games may have 'limited spectators' due to Covid-19, says Toshiro Muto

TOKYO: The Olympics and Paralympics could be held in front of "a limited number of spectators" due to Covid-19, says Tokyo 2020 chief executive Toshiro Muto.

The International Olympic Committee does not want to put the Games back a further year until 2022.

"Everyone should focus on holding the event next year - we're on the same page," said Muto.

He also added: "We discussed this with Thomas Bachm IOC president, and he's saying it isn't appropriate to think about cancelling or postponing again."

Asked about the possibility of the Olympics being held with no spectators, Muto replied: "Bach is not looking for that scenario. He may be thinking about a limited number of spectators with full consideration of social distancing."

The Games are scheduled to be staged between July 23 and August 8, 2021, with the Paralympics from August 24 to September.5.

Health experts have cast doubt over whether they could be held without a vaccine or effective drugs to treat Covid-19.

"If a vaccine is ready, that will be a benefit, but we're not saying we can't hold the event without it - it's not a precondition," said Muto. Muto said options included reducing the number of staff and delegations from individual countries and 'simplifying' the opening and closing ceremonies, although there were no plans to cut the number of events or athletes.

"If we're able to succeed, Tokyo 2020 will leave a legacy as the first major international event held after the pandemic," he added. (Agencies)

Also watch: #NewsMakers: Amending EIA Notification, 2020 Impact on NorthEast