The Tokyo Olympics will have domestic spectators, it was decided Monday.
Seiko Hashimoto, president of the Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, said a maximum of 10,000 spectators or 50% of the seating capacity, whichever is fewer, will be allowed into Olympic venues in principle.
The decision was made at a five-party online conference of the Tokyo organizing committee, the International Olympic Committee, the International Paralympic Committee, the Japanese government and the Tokyo metropolitan government.
However, the Games might still be held without spectators.
"If a state of emergency [over the novel coronavirus pandemic] is declared or emergency-level priority measures are imposed from July 12, necessary steps will be taken, based in principle on steps taken under the state of emergency or the priority measures, including holding competitions without spectators," Hashimoto said.
The opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics is scheduled for July 23, with some competitions starting two days before. The Olympics will conclude on Aug. 8.
In March, it was decided not to allow spectators from abroad.
As for the Paralympics, the opening ceremony for which will be held Aug. 24, Hashimoto said a decision on spectators will be made by July 16. The Paralympics will close on Sept. 5.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
