Japan's Olympics minister said Wednesday "inconceivable" to postpone or cancel the Tokyo Olympics as the new coronavirus epidemic continues to raise questions about whether the event will continue this summer.
"From the point of view of the athletes who are the main players in the Tokyo Games, as they prepare for this event which only happens once every four years (...), it is inconceivable" to cancel or postpone the event, said Seiko Hashimoto to Japanese parliamentarians.
The Minister recognized, however, that "it is up to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to make the final decision on the Games. We believe it is important that the government gives correct information so that the IOC can make an appropriate decision. ”
Clarifications requested
The rapid spread of the Covid-19 virus, which has already infected more than 560 people and killed 12 people in Japan, has created a climate of uncertainty even as preparations for the Games (scheduled for July 24 to August 9) are in its final phase.
Ms. Hashimoto's statements come as a member of the Japanese Games organizing committee, Haruyuki Takahashi, said in Wall Street Journal columns that a one- to two-year postponement of the Tokyo Olympics was realistic they could not be maintained this summer.
The organizers are continuing the preparation of the Games as initially planned, however assured Hashimoto on Wednesday. The Tokyo 2020 organizers also demanded "clarifications" from Mr. Takahashi.
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JO: Minister could see Japan withdraw from Games if postponed beyond 2020
- Coronavirus
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- Olympic Games
- Japan
- OJ 2020