IOC issues statement on COVID-19 and Tokyo 2020

IOC issues statement on COVID-19 and Tokyo 2020

Lausanne, Switzerland, March 3, 2020: The International Olympic Committee Executive Board on Tuesday expressed its full commitment to the success of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, taking place from July 24 to August 9.

The IOC EB heard a report on all the measures taken so far to address the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, which was followed by a comprehensive discussion.

A joint task force had already been created in mid-February involving the IOC, Tokyo 2020, the host city of Tokyo, the government of Japan and the World Health Organization (WHO). 

The IOC EB appreciates and supports the measures being taken, which constitute an important part of Tokyo’s plans to host safe and secure Games.

The IOC will continue to follow the advice of WHO, as the leading United Nations agency on this topic. The IOC EB expressed its thanks to WHO for its continued valuable advice and cooperation.

It also praised the great unity and solidarity of the athletes, National Olympic Committees, International Federations and governments. It welcomed their close collaboration and flexibility with regard to the preparations for the Games and particularly the qualification events. 

All stakeholders continue to work closely together to address the challenges of the coronavirus.

The IOC EB encourages all athletes to continue to prepare for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. The IOC will keep supporting the athletes by providing the latest information and developments, which are accessible for athletes worldwide on the Athlete365 website.

Source: www.olympic.org