This archive report was first published on 23 June 2021.
Tokyo 2020 Unveils Strict Fan Rules Ahead of Olympics ¶
With just one month to go until the Olympic opening ceremony on July 23, Tokyo 2020 has unveiled strict rules for spectators at the upcoming Games.
According to AFP, spectators will be required to clear several antivirus requirements, including temperature checks and mask-wearing, just to get into venues. Once inside, they will be forbidden from cheering or 'making direct contact with other spectators' and will be asked to go straight home after events end.
The rules also prohibit spectators from asking athletes for autographs or 'expressing verbal support', as well as waving a towel or 'any form of cheering that could create a crowd'. The ban on alcohol is also in place, despite it being allowed at other sporting events currently being held in Japan.
Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto warned that festivities 'will have to be suppressed' to keep the Games safe, and conceded that organisers will need to be 'creative' to stoke a party atmosphere.
Speaking to reporters, Hashimoto said: 'The festive mood will have to be suppressed — that has become a major challenge.' She added: 'People can feel joy in their hearts, but they can't be loud and they have to avoid crowds.'
Hashimoto also rejected the suggestion that the complications of Tokyo 2020 might put off future hosts, as Olympic officials face a dwindling number of cities eager for the expensive undertaking.
She said: 'I see this as one opportunity to present the essence of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and to change the format of the Games, so that other cities will be willing to hold the Games in the future.'
