Should the Toyko Olympics go ahead?

Postponed last year because of the Covid pandemic, the games are due to start on 23rd July.

The 2020 Summer Olympic Games are scheduled to take place in Toyko next month amid a surge in Covid cases, but should they be allowed to take place at all?

Due to the spread of the Delta variant of the UK has been placed on Japan’s “red” list of countries and there is currently no exemption for Olympic athletes. Anyone travelling to Japan from the UK must self-isolate in their hotel room for six days.

These rules, however, are due to be reviewed on 1st July and the International Olympic Committee is trying to find a way to minimise the impact on those arriving for the Games.

As it stands, if travellers break the isolation rules, they risk disqualification from the Games or even deportation.

A state of emergency in Tokyo due to a surge of infections has only just been lifted this week. Emergency Covid restrictions had been in place in Toyko since late April as Japan struggled to control a wave of infections and some emergency measures will remain in place in certain areas until 11th July.

What do the Japanese think?

In recent polls, support seems to be increasing for holding the Olympics, though opposition is strong, with some 83 per cent saying they felt ‘uneasy’ that the virus might spread due to the Games.

How safe are the Games?

All participants in the Games will be required to record two negative tests before arriving in Japan. They will not be allowed to use public transport, and they can eat only in designated areas, such as in their hotel restaurant, venues and their rooms. Non-compliance with the rules will lead to disciplinary action, and an athlete who intentionally refuses to take a test when requested could face being sent home.

Athletes will also need to wear masks within venues, including during medal ceremonies.

What are the rules for spectators?

After it was confirmed earlier this week that Games venues could be 50 per cent full (up to a maximum of 10,000 people), a code of conduct was published by the local organising committee.

Spectators are asked not to stop on their way to or from venues and to refrain from shouting or talking loudly. They are not to ask for autographs or to cheer for athletes. Alcohol will not be available for purchase at the venues, and nor can it be brought in. Face coverings for spectators must be worn at all times.

Do you think it’s wise to allow competitors from 196 countries to travel to Tokyo amid a pandemic? Is it fair on competitors who test positive for Covid and therefore cannot compete after training so hard for so long? Should the Games be postponed again or even cancelled altogether? Or perhaps you think the Japanese have got the situation in hand and a taste of normality would be good for everyone?