OCM welcome one-year Tokyo 2020 delay

PETALING JAYA: The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) have welcomed the decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee to host the Tokyo Olympic Games from July 23-Aug 8, 2021.

The Tokyo Olympics were scheduled from July 24-Aug 9, but the Covid-19 pandemic forced the first peace-time postponement of the Games.

“The OCM fully support the decision of the IOC and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee to host the Olympic Games on the new dates and we are pleased that the new dates have been confirmed sooner rather than later,” said Norza.

“The announcement provides calmness to the sports community, particularly to athletes who have endured mental stress during this period of uncertainty.”

“The 12-month postponement will not only allow countries to use all resources to fight Covid-19 and keeping everyone safe, but also allow sufficient time for athletes to reboot and return to peak condition.”

At the moment, only 12 Malaysian athletes have qualified for the Tokyo Olympics although the OCM have a target of sending a contingent of 30-35 athletes to Japan.

A large number of Malaysian athletes are in the dark as their qualifying competitions have been suspended but Norza said that OCM would ensure that the qualifying process to the Olympics will be fair.

“We will work with the IOC and International Federations to ensure that the Games will be fair and equitable, particularly in relation to the qualification process,” he said.

“Locally, we will continue our close coordination with the Youth and Sport Ministry, our members, athletes, and other stakeholders to ensure our athletes’ preparation for the Olympic gold medal remains on track.

“We look forward to the Games in 2021 and am sure it will live up to its promise of Tokyo 2020.

“I have no doubt that as a team, we will overcome this adversity and all will be better because of it.”