Japan(Tokyo) The Tokyo Olympic Games are set to open in one week with few spectators as the Japanese capital struggles to control the coronavirus pandemic.
Olympic organizers decided last week to ban spectators at most venues, including all in Tokyo and three neighboring prefectures, due to a resurgence in coronavirus cases in Japan.
Venues in some prefectures will allow a limited number of spectators.
Only Games officials, representatives from each country and sport organization will attend the opening ceremony on July 23. Their number was first estimated to be about 10,000, but is going to be reduced to several hundred.
The Olympic village has opened and many athletes have already entered Japan to complete their training.
But concerns are growing over the possible impact of the coronavirus on the event schedule, as some athletes have tested positive.
The organizers are facing the challenge of completing all necessary arrangements and securing the safety of the Games.
The first game of the softball tournament is scheduled for July 21, ahead of other events and the opening ceremony.
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