The approaching Tokyo Olympics is set to proceed without spectators, after Japan declared a state of emergency for Tokyo amid rising COVID-19 infections.

Tokyo 2020 President Seiko Hashimoto stated that it is “regrettable” that the Olympics were going to be held without spectators. She apologised to those who had bought tickets.

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Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said isuch measures were vital, in order to slow down the spread of the highly infectious Delta COVID-19 variant.

The announcement comes just a day after two Olympic Village workers in Tokyo tested positive for COVID-19. The village is set to open for athletes in a few days time. The Games are due to open July 23.

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The International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee said they respect Japan’s decision and “support it in the interest of safe and secure Games for everybody.”

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Athletes have known for some time now, that this was a possibility. A similar situation has followed athletes around the globe during pre-Olympic meets. Most European meets have had limited spectator numbers, and it certainly has not had a negative impact on performances.

Despite the set-back, the Olympics will proceed, and the global television audience is set to break all-time records, with much of the world still sheltering at home.

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