Tokyo 2020 “purely working” towards rescheduled Olympics and Paralympics

Tokyo 2020 have revealed they are “purely working” on the rescheduled Olympic and Paralympic Games, suggesting there is no alternative plan if the pandemic is still an issue next year. 

The coronavirus pandemic forced the postponement of Tokyo 2020, with the Olympics now set to take place from July 23 to August 8 in 2021, followed by the Paralympics from August 24 to September 5. 

There are concerns coronavirus may still be an issue next year, however, with Tokyo 2020 chief executive Toshirō Mutō recently acknowledging it could impact the Games once again. 

Reports today suggested there is not a Plan B if this was the case, with a Tokyo 2020 spokesperson seeming to confirm this to insidethegames. 

“Tokyo 2020 and all concerned parties are now dedicating their very best effort to deliver the Games next year,” the spokesperson said.

“Our mission is very clear. 

“The mission of the Organising Committee is to prepare for the best platform for athletes and all involved traveling to Tokyo to participate in the Games in 2021. 

“The new date for the Olympic and Paralympic Games is already set. 

“We are purely working on our mission towards the new goal.”

Mutō had also suggested there were no alternative plans to the announced dates in 2021.

“Rather than think about alternative plans, we should put in all of our effort,” he said. 

“Mankind should bring together all of its technology and wisdom to work hard so they can development treatments, medicines and vaccines.”

Since the postponement, seven prefectures in Japan including Tokyo have entered into a state of emergency as coronavirus cases soar. 

The Municipal Government of Sapporo, where the marathons and race walking will be held, has also returned to a state of emergency having been in one earlier this year. 

More than 7,600 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Japan, while nearly 150 people have died. 

Tokyo 2020 officials are now working from home if possible due to the pandemic, with all press briefings held virtually.  

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