Tokyo Games can be a beacon of hope: Coe

World Athletics chief admits restrictions mean “it won’t be business as usual”

World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe said on Sunday he believes the coronavirus-postponed Tokyo Olympics can be “a beacon of hope and optimism”, despite infections surging around the world. A virus state of emergency in Tokyo and other parts of Japan was extended on Friday, less than three months before the Games are due to begin. The emergency measures come as Olympic organisers struggle to win over a sceptical Japanese public, who fear the Games could spread infections despite a ban on overseas fans and possibly domestic spectators too.