Staging Games a tough call

Calling them off will be major blow but Japan must consider local sentiment too

The Olympic rings are lit up off Odaiba island in Tokyo. While Japan's infection count has been well below other industrialised nations, the pandemic has been a persistent cloud over the Olympics since they were delayed almost a year ago.
The Olympic rings are lit up off Odaiba island in Tokyo. While Japan's infection count has been well below other industrialised nations, the pandemic has been a persistent cloud over the Olympics since they were delayed almost a year ago. PHOTO: BLOOMBERG
A local makes his feelings known during IOC chief Thomas Bach's visit last year. Up to 80 per cent of Japanese are against holding the Games.
A local makes his feelings known during IOC chief Thomas Bach's visit last year. Up to 80 per cent of Japanese are against holding the Games. PHOTO: REUTERS
David Lee
Sports Correspondent
Updated
Feb 02, 2021, 07:25 PM
Published
Jan 29, 2021, 05:00 AM
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Only two global wars have stopped the Olympics from taking place. But as the world continues to battle Covid-19, the status of the Tokyo Games remains in doubt, even as International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach on Wednesday reiterated that the organisers were committed to holding a "successful and safe" Games this year.

The 32nd Games have already been pushed back a year and with another postponement not an option, it leaves a cancellation as a possible outcome.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 29, 2021, with the headline Staging Games a tough call. Subscribe

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