Can the Olympic Games succeed without overseas fans?

The Olympic and Paralympics Games thrive on one thing: International sport fans. But after a year of delay, they will not be in Tokyo when the Games finally begin.

Only Japanese fans will be allowed into the stadiums. Organisers say it is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the public’s safety.

The decision is a big blow to the athletes, as well as the businesses and sponsors who have spent billions of dollars to be part of the world’s biggest sporting event.

So, can the games succeed?

Presenter: Mohammed Jamjoom

Guests:

Dan Orlowitz – sports writer at Japan Times

Lutalo Muhammad – British taekwondo Olympic medalist training for the Tokyo Games

Seijiro Takeshita – dean of the school of management at the University of Shizuoka