International athletes could be invited to participate in test events before the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games this summer, organisers said on Monday.
The events will be a dress rehearsal in how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as organisers gear up to host a global sports event during a global pandemic.
“We are checking how many foreign athletes want to take part and the interest from their countries. Once we know the number, they will plan with the (Japanese) government, ” Tokyo 2020 Deputy Executive Officer Yasuo Mori told a news conference.
Test events for five competitions, including track and field and the marathon, could involve foreign athletes participating, the organisers said.
Tokyo 2020 is planning 18 test events before the Games begin on July 23.
The Olympic Torch relay started last week, with bystanders asked to stay masked, stand apart and clap instead of cheering for torchbearers as organisers try to ease public safety concerns.
