SINGING, chanting, hugging and high-fiving will be BANNED from the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics to avoid the spread of Covid-19.
The IOC, IPC and the Organising Committee are releasing a series of ‘Playbooks’ containing important dos and don’ts for this summer’s Games.
Scenes like Jason Kenny and Laura Trott kissing could be banned in TokyoCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And anybody flouting the general health and safety rules will be chucked out.
In the first Playbook – which targets International Federation delegates, medical staff and officials – there are a series of coronavirus countermeasures that must be observed.
It is understood the many principles will form the “framework” of the books sent to Team GB athletes shortly.
In the first Playbook, it says:
+ Support athletes by clapping and not singing or chanting
+ Avoid unnecessary forms of physical contact such as hugs, high-fives and handshakes
+ Keep physical interactions with others to a minimum
+ Keep two metres distance from athletes and at least one metre from others, including in operational spaces
+ Use Games transport systems. Do not use public transport unless given permission
+ Wear a face mask at all times, unless outside and two metres away from others
+ Avoid enclosed spaces and crowds where possible
+ Do not visit tourist areas, shops, restaurants or bars, gyms etc
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It is unknown if fans will be told to remain silent in venues – unless it is decided in April that it will become a behind-closed-doors event.
A test, trace and isolate smartphone app will be in operation and everybody must monitor their health daily for 14 days before travelling to Japan.
Everyone must undergo a PRC nose and throat test within 72 hours of flying and will be tested upon arrival in the Japanese capital.
Anyone who tests positive must “immediately begin self-isolation in line with local rules”.
Athletes will soon learn more about their stay in the Olympic and Paralympic village but they have already been told long-time post-event partying and sight-seeing will not be permitted.
Team GB stars and staff will have restrictions “on socialising outside the Village” and “their movement between official Games venues”.
Vaccinations are not mandatory and the rules will apply whether or not someone has had the jab.
Covid-19 Liaison Officers will record symptoms, test results and monitor those who flout the rules.
Anybody that does so repeatedly or in a serious nature will be chucked out and have their accreditation revoked.
IOC President Thomas Bach admitted last week for the first time he is uncertain whether crowds can attend venues due to the global Covid-19 crisis.
A decision on whether it will be a behind-closed-doors Olympic and Paralympic Games is expected to be made by April.
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has pledged that the Tokyo Olympics will go ahead this summer
Source: Athletics - thesun.co.uk
