IPC reaction to Japanese decision on overseas spectators

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) were informed on Saturday (20 March) by the Japanese parties in the five parties meeting about their conclusion regarding overseas spectators at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 this summer.

During the meeting, the IOC and IPC were informed about the conclusion of the Japanese parties not to allow entry into Japan for overseas spectators for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 due to the prevailing worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.

The full statement can be found here.

Andrew Parsons, IPC President, said: “It goes without saying that in an ideal world we would prefer to have international spectators at the Games, allowing families, friends and fans to cheer on their loved ones and all athletes.  But at the moment we must acknowledge that due to the global pandemic we are not living in an ideal world. As a result, some difficult decisions, which we fully appreciate will leave many disappointed, need to be made to further contribute to ensure safe and secure Games.

“The safety of all stakeholders, in particular the Japanese public and athletes, is our top priority for the Tokyo 2020 Games and that is why the IPC fully respect and accept this decision from the Japanese parties.

“With no international spectators, we will work even harder to ensure more global broadcast and digital coverage for the Paralympic Games than ever before so that anyone who wants to watch the Games can do so.

“What was clear from Saturday’s meeting was that the commitment of all five Parties to delivering safe, secure and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games is unwavering.  Delivering these Games is a monumental team effort, and we thank the Japanese parties and friends for their continued support.”