The Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony is likely to be attended by less than 1000 VIPs and foreign dignitaries in person, a sharp reduction from the previously decided figure of 10,000 amid rise in Covid-19 cases here, the local media reported on Thursday.
Kyodo News, quoting sources, reported that the organisers have been attempting to cut the number of people physically attending the ceremony at the National Stadium on July 23.
The Games will open in a state of emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic even as efforts are being made to ensure that Japan’s Emperor Naruhito attends the ceremony to declare the event open.
US First lady Jill Biden is also expected to be among the international guests for the ceremony.
The National Stadium can accommodate 68,000 people but the ceremony will be limited to Games’ guests, including IOC representatives and foreign dignitaries.
The Games will be held without spectators in Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa and Saitama.
Participants to wear mask
Athletes, presenters and volunteers will not pose for group photographs and wear masks on the podium during Tokyo Olympics medal ceremonies, the IOC said on Thursday, announcing a series of health-safety measures keeping in mind the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to the new guidelines, additional podium modules will be placed between Gold and Silver medallists and Gold and Bronze medallists to allow for social distancing.