Fake cheers, empty seats: Tokyo gives glimpse of Covid-era Olympics

Determined to hold the Olympics, Japan shows the world how the Games will be held in the Covid-era- with fake cheers and empty seats. A test event was held recently, which presented the reality of hosting the event during the pandemic, as athletes competed in a muted atmosphere.

As the track event was held, foot-strikes could be heard all around in the Stadium even with recorded crowd noises played in the background. The voices reached a crescendo as the runners approached the finish. This athletic meet is part of a series of events that Tokyo is holding, which involved more than 400 competitors, out of which only 9 are from overseas.

Barring fans from abroad, the organisers are looking into how many spectators from the country can be allowed to attend. While these test events are unusual, they help the argument that the Olympics should be held despite COVID.

Many parts of Japan are still under a state of emergency, which is why most Japanese are against holding the Games, according to a recent poll. Protestors could be seen outside the stadium as the test event was being held, calling for a suspension of the event. Organisers of the Games have assured that the event will be held under strict restrictions.

Sports events being held around the globe have also provided an insight into how athletes are reacting to the restrictions and being confined to their hotel rooms. Some wish to walk outside for fresh air, or some leniency in the rules, but protocols will probably remain in place. Two cases of the virus have been reported by the Olympics organisers, but is not being perceived as a roadblock.