This archive report was first published on 25 October 2019.
Published on October 25, 2019, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made the decision to move the marathons and race walking events from Tokyo to Sapporo final, according to IOC's Coates.
Coates, chairman of the IOC's Coordination Commission, cited the world championships in Doha as a reason for the decision, where dozens of athletes received medical attention due to hot and humid conditions.
"The IOC was shocked by what we saw in Doha in very similar conditions in terms of temperature and humidity to what's expected here in Tokyo," Coates said, emphasizing the health and welfare of the athletes.
Coates met with Tokyo's Governor Yuriko Koike, who expressed her opposition to the plan to move the events to Sapporo, describing it as a "bolt from the blue".
Coates acknowledged the great disappointment of people in Tokyo but stated that the decision was final, despite city officials insisting they still want to host the events.
"It's not a matter of if the Tokyo government insists, the decision has been taken," Coates said, ruling out any chance of the events being staged in Tokyo.
The IOC will propose holding the medal ceremonies for the events in Tokyo, as well as a parade through the city's streets featuring athletes.
Discussions will also take place about the economic losses incurred as a result of the decision.
'Very surprised' ¶
Tokyo's Governor Yuriko Koike expressed her surprise at the decision, stating that she had not been given a convincing reason for the move.
