The COVID-19 pandemic has struck deep into the heart of mankind, and it is well reflected through the Olympics of this year.
As overseas spectators are barred from the arena, waves of disappointment have covered the face of every sports enthusiast.
Olympics is not just a competition where people participate to win gold. It is a life-changing platform that symbolizes human solidarity. The spectators are just as much a part of the event as the participants.
The Japanese authoritative bodies responsible for the Tokyo Summer Olympics have made their intention clear that they will not allow any overseas spectators to the event.
Seiko Hashimoto, president of the Tokyo committee, has commented,
“The Tokyo 2020 Games will be completely different from the past, but the essence remains the same.”
Seiko Hashimoto
She assured everyone that the athletes will be putting everything on the line just like all the previous games in order to inspire people with their performances.
The vaccine isn’t readily available in all countries yet. While the I.O.C has stated that the athletes should be vaccinated ahead of the Games, not all spectators might be vaccinated. In Japan itself, the vaccination procedure is slow.
Various new strains in the virus might be brought into the country, and international travel is also highly restricted in Japan. These are the main reasons behind the decision taken by the Japanese committee members.
Those who have pre-booked tickets will be informed about the decision and will be refunded. The rumor that Japan had let go of the Olympics event altogether is thus proven wrong, and athletes can now breathe a sigh of relief.
Both the Olympic and the Paralympic events will not put up with any overseas spectators, and even the number of tickets sold in Japan will be limited.
Now that Tokyo’s State of Emergency is being lifted and the Olympic event is confirmed, there is bound to be a festive mood between people.
The Olympics will be seen as humanity’s victory over the considerable adversity that was thrown our way.
Source: Website of Olympics, Paralympics
No Comments on Tokyo Summer Olympics Confirmed But At What Cost? Foreign Spectators Banned!