International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach has reaffirmed that the organization is "fully committed" to the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games taking place next year, also emphasizing a wish for the event to be "frugal".
The IOC is considering "multiple scenarios" to ensure the Games go ahead in the summer of 2021 and is prioritizing the health and well-being of athletes, according to its President.
Speaking after a meeting of the IOC Executive Board, Bach discussed the different climate he expects the Games to go ahead in - one "much more health-conscious than before" and more focused on the essentials.
"All this will be reflected in the organization of these postponed Olympic Games," Bach said.
"We want these Olympic Games to be frugal Games, concentrating on the essentials and the spirit and the message of these Olympic Games.
"The spirit of the Olympic Games is about the athletes and sports excellence.
"It's about unity.
"It's about bringing the entire world together."
The Games were pushed back until 2021 in light of the coronavirus pandemic, which left many athletes unable to train or travel due to restrictions put in place to contain the spread of the deadly virus.
An Olympic postponement is unprecedented in peacetime and the Opening Ceremony is now set for July 23rd next year.
|