[Tokyo 11th Reuters]–Former Olympian Kaori Yamaguchi, a director of the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) who has pointed out the risks of holding the Tokyo Olympics so far, responded to an interview with Reuters on the 11th. “Given the sense of security of the people, it’s better to have no spectators,” he said.
He criticized the government for not being able to explain what the public thinks is safe and secure. He said that he wanted to enjoy the Olympics while demanding refrain from drinking and going out, and said, “The people are confused by the double standard.”
When the situation of the new coronavirus infection in Japan finally peaked out, he said, “When people all over Japan move here, everyone is worried that the infection will spread again,” he said. He expressed the idea that it is desirable to hold the event.
However, he predicted that it would actually be held with an audience.
According to media polls, half of the population still wants to cancel or postpone the Olympics.
Regarding the message that the government should convey now, even if it holds a tournament, it should be at least a competition, and after telling the people that “I have not escaped from Corona yet. I am next to danger.” He said he should ask for cooperation.
A judoka who has won many world championships in the Seoul Olympics women’s judo bronze medalist, he said about the current situation of corona infection, “The most dangerous time is when I think I can win the game. Don’t let your guard down. “
When asked if there was any pressure from the people around him to make critical statements about the operation of the JOC, Mr. Yamaguchi replied, “I think I should make a statement because I am a director of the JOC.” In the discussion about the Olympics, he pointed out that it is not good not to see the faces of people in the sports world. He said it was important to open up and discuss any dissenting opinions.
Mr. Yamaguchi, who currently teaches at the University of Tsukuba, says that there is a particular tendency in Japan to avoid such discussions, which needs to be changed. “I think it’s my job to create an environment where young people can express their opinions,” he said.
Ami Miyazaki, Antonio Slodkowski
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