Things are getting complicated in Japan with each passing day. Roughly 10,000 volunteers expected to help in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics have quit over the fear of contracting Covid-19. This setback comes after several people in the country turned against the Games. A recent poll, conducted by a leading newspaper, showed 60% of voters in favour of the mega event being called off. “There’s no doubt that one of the reasons is concern over coronavirus infections,” Toshiro Muto, CEO of the organising committee, was quoted as saying by The Japan Times.

With barely 50 days for the event to start, Tokyo Olympics president Seiko Hashimoto is hopeful. “If various countries around the world experience very serious situations, and delegations from most countries can't come, then we wouldn't be able to hold it. But conversely, unless such a situation emerges, the Games will not be cancelled.” Hashimoto told Nikkan Sports.

Hashimoto is also optimistic as Japan’s vaccination programme is gathering pace. “We are hearing more and more voices from people saying 'if this is the case, the Olympics may be able to take place',” she said.

Covid-19 is not the only reason why volunteers have quit. Sexist remarks by Hashimoto's predecessor Yashiro Mori also have a major role to play. Mori, who had said that “women waste too much time in meetings”, was forced to resign earlier this year in February.

Overseas visitors will not be allowed, and a decision on local visitors will be taken by the organising committee after a state of emergency in Japan’s seven prefectures ends on June 20. The Games are expected to roll from July 23 to August 8.

Earlier this week, Australia’s softball team became the first set of Olympic athletes to arrive in Japan. But there’s unfortunate news as well. A member of Ghana’s U-24 football team had tested positive after arriving in Japan for a friendly on Wednesday.