GAMES WON’T BE AS JOYFUL olympics

TOKYO- bound spectators will neither have to vaccinate nor quarantine provided they submit negative Covid- 19 test results.

Organisers have outlined how the rearranged Olympics can go ahead, even if the pandemic is not under control by the time the flame is lit in July.

Overseas fans do not have to quarantine but must download tracking apps and abide by safety requirements. Mask- wearing is mandatory and there will be a cheering ban. They can use public transport and need to keep ticket stubs for contact- tracing.

Tokyo 2020 chief executive Toshiro Muto said organisers are working on the assumption a vaccine will not be available by the July 23 start. “If the Games are to be held under the pandemic, I don’t think the Olympics will be as festive as they have been in the past,” he said.

No decision on spectator numbers will be made until the spring when infection rates around the world will be considered.

Athletes are to be screened on arrival in Japan, which has reported only 2,109 Covid deaths, and undergo testing every four days. Each competitor must sign up to a code of conduct that includes avoiding speaking loudly and physical contact with others.

They must also wear masks when not training or competing.

Athletes will be asked to head home as soon as their competition ends, rather than stay on to party or sightsee.

“We want to be sure that the Athletes’ Village doesn’t get too dense,” said Muto.