October 23, 2020
1 min read

Athletes from hotspots will be allowed: IOC Chief

International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach says he doesn’t expect countries to pull out of next year’s Tokyo Olympics due to Covid pandemic and that athletes too won’t be barred if they test negative.

The Olympics are set to be held from July 23 to August 8 next year after being postponed from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but leading health experts have, over the past few months, expressed doubts on whether the Games can be held without a vaccine for the virus.

Bach said that athletes who would be travelling to Tokyo from countries that have a high amount of infections won’t be barred from participating in the Games.

“Athletes do not bear responsibility for the virus,” said Bach in an Instagram chat with German javelin thrower Johannes Vetter.

“If they test negative and follow the safety regulations, they should have the opportunity to participate. I also do not expect countries to opt out. All 206 National Olympic Committees affiliated with the IOC are determined and full of anticipation.”

Bach also said that the organisers are planning testing centres at the athletes’ village, which will be treated as a bio-secure bubble.

“The athletes village is the beating heart of the Games, but this time it will not have the social function that we are used to,” said Bach.

Also Read: IOC lauds Abe’s role in Olympics’ preparedness

Also Read: Qatar to bid for Olympics 2032

Previous Story

Biden warns of ‘dark winter’ if Trump stays in power

Next Story

Climate change: Trump puts blame on India, China, Russia

Latest from Sport

Ronaldo stays! Al Nassr deal extended

Portuguese icon commits to Saudi side amid swirling transfer rumours and global football spotlight Cristiano Ronaldo has officially extended his stay at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr until 2027, putting an end

Stokes: Don’t Write India Off Yet

Stokes added that his side’s sole focus is limited to the India series and not thinking beyond. Ahead of the first Test of the five-match series, England captain Ben Stokes said that

Headingley Heat or Swing Trap

Jaffer pointed out that Joe Root is undoubtedly the main guy that India should be looking to dislodge, even as others, including skipper Ben Stokes, are in indifferent batting form…writes Niharika Raina

Full Carse Ahead

Carse is adamant he will be taking the five-game series against India as an opportunity to show the different skills he brings to the table. England quick Brydon Carse is relishing the

Pant Stays Cool

Pant, who is set to continue at No. 5 in the batting order, also confirmed a major reshuffle As India braces for a much-anticipated five-match Test series against England starting June 20
Go toTop