The Tokyo Olympics, which have been delayed by greater than a yr due to the covid-19 pandemic, lastly start right now beneath a strict covid protocol that features a ban on spectators. Mint takes a have a look at what’s at stake:
What’s totally different in regards to the Tokyo Olympics?
Despite the fact that the Tokyo Video games are happening in the summertime of 2021, they’re nonetheless known as the 2020 Olympics. Covid-19 protocols might be in place and a slew of latest occasions, resembling karate, skateboarding, and browsing, might be a part of the Video games. Baseball and softball will make their return to the Olympics after the 2008 Beijing Olympics. There might be 9 new mixed-gender occasions throughout seven sports activities. In whole, there might be a file 41 sports activities. The Worldwide Olympic Committee (IOC) stated girls’s participation in Tokyo might be 49%, up from 45% at Rio, a virtually even cut up with the lads.
Why wasn’t the occasion cancelled this yr?
Public sentiment in Japan has been against holding the Video games due to fears that it’ll result in a spike in circumstances within the nation. The second-largest promoting newspaper in Japan, the Asahi Shimbun, has known as for the Olympics to be cancelled. Nonetheless, there are billions of {dollars} at stake. Japan has formally spent $15.4 billion, however authorities audits recommend that the quantity is twice that a lot. Additionally, the host metropolis contract offers the IOC the only authority to cancel the occasion. If Japan cancels, it must compensate the IOC. Estimates recommend a cancellation may price the IOC $3-4 billion in misplaced broadcast rights earnings.
May the Video games be cancelled mid-way?
The pinnacle of the Tokyo Olympics organizing committee on 20 July didn’t rule out a last-minute cancellation of the worldwide sporting showpiece. Toshiro Muto stated he would control the variety of circumstances and maintain discussions if essential. Over 90 folks, together with athletes, accredited for the Tokyo Video games have been examined optimistic for covid-19 to date.
How is India being represented?
India is sending its largest ever contingent of 228 members, together with 127 athletes. However athletes from seven sports activities, together with taking pictures, badminton, archery, and hockey, will skip the opening ceremony due to covid fears, leaving about 30 in attendance. Based on a 21 July report by The Instances of India, Haryana and Punjab are main the best way for the nation on the Video games, with 31 and 19 contributors, respectively. Tamil Nadu is sending 11 athletes, whereas Uttar Pradesh and Kerala are sending 5 athletes every.
Who can get the medals for India?
The hopes are of a primary ever double -digit determine, surpassing the most effective haul of six achieved in 2012. The foremost among the many contenders are 15 shooters, Mirabai Chanu in weightlifting, and the archery crew led by world primary Deepika Kumari. The boxers are one other set of massive contenders with world primary Amit Panghal and six-time world champion M.C. Mary Kom within the ranks. In wrestling, Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat appear more likely to win. P.V. Sindhu might win her second Olympic medal.
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