With the Tokyo Games postponed until 2021 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) must now address a number of issues that require some rethinking.
The first consequence of the cancellation of this year’s events is the additional cost. Plus, the Japanese organizing committee and the Olympic family have the extra responsibilities of developing new plans for postponed qualification events and analysis of the competition program for next summer, plus continuing daily business.
Olympic officials have yet to provide a current balance sheet for the Tokyo games, saying it was too early to do so, although they did indicate that, at the time of the postponement, Japan was in a healthy financial position thanks to proceeds from ticket and accommodations sales, marketing and broadcasting rights, among other sources of income.
The IOC has stated that, despite the postponement, it should be able to fulfill its commitments. The body has previously stated that 90% of its income is donated the Olympic Solidarity fund (for athletes and coaches); to national Olympic Committees (aid to athletes); and international federations, for the promotion of sports at world level. The remaining 10% covers operational costs related to administration of the Olympic movement.
Regarding physical facilities, the number one problem is securing apartments in the Olympic Village, since, in accordance with the original plan, these were to be made available to their new owners in September.
If solving the problem of the Village is a headache, so is that of lodging in Sapporo, since scheduling of the marathon and walking competitions in this city has been maintained, to avoid Tokyo’s high summer temperatures, which could negatively affect the athletes’ performance.
Christophe Dubi, Games director, confirmed that athletes who have already qualified will maintain their status and it will be up to National Olympic Committees to select representatives for the event.
Regarding the sports venues, Dubi commented that more problems are presented by facilities with other uses, such conference centers, that already have a calendar of events scheduled for 2021. Negotiations are underway with operators of these facilities, he explained.
Another proposal to be considered is one from for the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) to allow under-23 players to participate in the Games if they have a birthday in 2020 that would normally end their eligibility.
Also on the table is the possibility that the Boxing Federation (AIBA), which was banned due to corruption, could regain the right to participate by the summer of 2021.
