Tehran, Iran, April 6, 2020: IOC President Thomas Bach has thanked the National Olympic Committee of the Islamic Republic of Iran for its support over the decision to postpone the Tokyo Olympics to 2021, reports the Tehran Times.
“Thank you for your letter of support for the IOC's decision to postpone the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 which I highly appreciated,” President Bach said in a letter.
“As you are aware, this postponement comes after many complex but fruitful conversations with the Japanese Government and Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee. This decision demonstrates our clear commitment to put the health of the athletes first.
“Naturally, your athletes will have many operational questions in relation to the postponement and, therefore, I would ask for your indulgence whilst the IOC team works through the details with our Japanese partners. Let me assure you that all your questions will be answered.”
The IOC President added: “I am deeply touched by your support and confidence. I am convinced that, by working together, the Olympic Movement can master this new unprecedented challenge.
“Humankind currently finds itself in a dark tunnel. These Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 can be a light at the end of this tunnel.”
In other news from Tehran:
*Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the suspension of sports activity in the country would be extended to April 18 due to the coronavirus.
Earlier, the Iran Sports Medicine Federation and Ministry of Sport and Youth had already called off sports activities until early April.
The health ministry said on Saturday that the Islamic Republic’s death toll had reached 3,452 among a total of 55,743 infected people. The daily toll has been rising by at least 100, reports the Tehran Times.