Tokyo Olympic Organizing Committee Faces Growing Criticism Over Consideration of Allowing Alcohol Consumption Inside Venues

Seiko Hashimoto, Chairperson of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Organizing Committee
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] The organizing committee of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics (hereafter the Organizing Committee), which decided to allow up to 10,000 spectators per game, has announced a policy to permit spectators to drink alcohol while cheering during the games, sparking anticipated controversy.

According to Kyodo News on the 22nd, the Organizing Committee is considering allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages inside the stadiums.

However, it is reported that there will be restrictions on the sales hours as a measure to prevent COVID-19.

Previously, when the Japanese government declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19, the sale of alcoholic beverages in restaurants and other establishments in certain areas was completely banned.

However, from the 21st, the government shifted to a lower level of measures, allowing alcohol sales with a time restriction until 7 p.m.

At a press conference on the 21st, Seiko Hashimoto, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, said regarding the issue of alcohol sales inside the stadiums, "We are reviewing it based on the perspective of ensuring safety by suppressing loud cheering and the general rules of society."

The Organizing Committee plans to announce guidelines for spectators on COVID-19 prevention within this week, reflecting the results of their review.

Kyodo News reported that the draft guidelines include a ban on gathering in stadium aisles to eat and drink.

However, with strong negative public opinion regarding allowing spectators due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, permitting alcohol sales inside the stadiums could further intensify criticism.

Yukio Edano, leader of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, strongly criticized the Organizing Committee’s consideration of allowing alcohol sales inside the stadiums during a party meeting on the 22nd, saying, "It is unbelievable."