Tokyo: 2020 Tokyo Olympics organisers on Wednesday said they are worried about the fast-spreading Novel Coronavirus outbreak in China. With the Olympic Games is just six months away from kick-off, the Tokyo Organising Committee is worried about its effect during the multi-million dollar event.
Chief Executive Officer Toshiro Muto sounded a grave note speaking at a meeting with officials of the International Paralympic Committee.
"I am seriously worried that the spread of the infectious disease could throw cold water on the momentum toward the games," Muto said, speaking in Japanese.
"I hope that it will be stamped out as soon as possible."
Saburo Kawabuchi, the mayor of the Athletes Village which will house 11,000 Olympians, showed his apprehension.
"I truly hope that the infectious disease will die down somehow so that we will be able to operate the Paralympics and Olympics smoothly," he said.
"In the worst case — we will do our utmost for the athletes so that they will be able to concentrate on performing their best."
In the wake of Coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, Tokyo organisers have repeatedly quashed the idea of cancelling the Olympics. Their stance was also backed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
But the problems deepen with each passing day. Some Olympic qualifying events have been cancelled, or relocated. Travel restrictions will add more confusion, and travelling fans are sure to be fearful.
There is no report of deaths in Japan due to the virus. But deaths in mainland China rose to 490 on Wednesday.
"In Japan, we are facing all sorts of problems including coronavirus infections, cyber security and transportation systems," Toshiaki Endo, an organising committee vice president, said on Tuesday at a news conference.
"The IOC is satisfied with our preparations," he added.
