20 May 2021

IOC insists Olympics, but Japanese citizens still unsure

From Morning Report, 6:14 am on 20 May 2021

But first, to Japan where dozens of towns have cancelled plans to host Olympic athletes at the upcoming Tokyo games.

Amidst rising criticism and concern about the spread of Covid-19, Japanese locals say they cannot risk going ahead with the Olympic programme that links communities in Japan with athletes from around the world.

In a virtual meeting on Wednesday, the International Olympic Committee president promised that the Olympics would be safe for athletes and host communities.

The IOC is insisting the games will go on despite the fact that much of Japan is currently under a state of emergency in an effort to dampen a fourth wave of infection.

Associated Press global sports correspondent Rob Harris spoke to Corin Dann.