Tokyo organisers to delay decision on spectator limits

Tokyo Olympic organisers indicated on Wednesday (April 21) that they would delay making a decision on the limit for spectators in venues, possibly not until June, as a resurgence in coronavirus cases complicates planning.

Games organisers already decided last month that international spectators would not be allowed into Japan, and have said they would decide by the end of April on how many domestic spectators would be allowed to attend events.

But Tokyo 2020 President Seiko Hashimoto told a news conference the decision would take more time while they study the coronavirus situation in the country.

“During the month of April we would like to show the direction we are going in (on spectator limits) but looking at the situation going forward we are still considering the timing for making the final decision,” she said, following a virtual meeting with the International Olympic Committee.

Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said a decision “could come in May or June, depending on the situation.”

Japan is battling a fourth wave of coronavirus cases, with Tokyo and other areas implementing restrictions on restaurant hours to try to halt the surge.

The Olympics are scheduled to open on July 23.