Tokyo 2020 to ensure the Olympic Torch Relay in Japan safely begins on March 26

Tokyo 2020 will work closely with all municipalities and related organizations in Japan to ensure the Olympic Torch Relay safely begins on March 26, the organizers said on Friday after the torch relay for the Games on Greek soil was canceled.

The Hellenic Olympic Committee announced on Friday the suspension of the Greek leg of the Olympic Torch Relay, citing concerns about public gatherings amid the spread of the novel coronavirus in Greece.

"Tokyo 2020 has been informed that the Greek leg of the Olympic Torch Relay has been canceled. However, we have been also informed that the Hellenic Olympic Committee has agreed to carry out the handover ceremony as planned on March 19, although there will be no public in attendance. Tokyo 2020 will continue to collaborate closely with all related organizations including the IOC and the Hellenic Olympic Committee," said the organizers of Tokyo 2020.

"Tokyo 2020 will bring the Olympic Flame back to Japan, and in line with the countermeasure policy set by the national government, we will work closely with all municipalities and related organizations in Japan to ensure the Olympic Torch Relay safely begins on March 26. The IOC and Tokyo 2020 have also reconfirmed today that both parties will continue to stay in close collaboration with all relevant organizations as we prepare to deliver a safe and secure Tokyo 2020 Games opening on 24 July 2020 as planned."