Tokyo Olympics: Conditions Indian athletes have to follow at Tokyo Games

Tokyo Olympics is going to be a test of the Indian contingent’s patience and will challenge their mental health. The likes of Neeraj Chopra, Vinesh Phogat, and others will have to follow strict guidelines of the Games. Failing to do so could lead to eviction from the Games.

India is still under Japan’s red list due to the presence of the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. It puts athletes under constant watch. Tokyo Olympics organisers have published guidelines for athletes, especially for India.

“For three days after your (athletes and officials) arrival in Japan, you will not be able to interact with anyone. From another team, delegation, or country. For example, you will not be able to interact or train with athletes from another country during that period.”

Tokyo Olympics: Rules to be followed by Indian athletes

• Testing every day: The Indian athletes have to be tested every day 7 days prior to departure. Moreover, the players will have a daily COVID test while they are in Tokyo. And self-isolate for the first three days. That means, the hockey team, will need to get tested for over 21 days consecutively.
• Alternate accommodation: As per guidelines, the athletes can only check in to the Tokyo Olympics Games Village five days before the inauguration. That means, even if Team India arrives early, they will need to have alternate accommodation for the initial period.
• No socializing: Once they reach Tokyo, Players will be in hard isolation for the first three days. That means, they will not be able to interact with anyone or use the dining hall during the Games.
• Nutrition planning: Indian athletes including Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker, and others will not be permitted to leave their rooms for the first 3 days. Food packets are going to be delivered to their rooms. In the case of the food hall, the team’s dietician takes care of that. But in this case, the dietician will be self-isolating as well.
• Lack of practice: The initial period after arriving in a country is crucial to get adjusted to the conditions. If Indian athletes spend three days in isolation, they will only have 2-3 days’ time to get adjusted and be in prime condition to compete.