Athletes at the Tokyo Olympics will not need a vaccine to participate – IOC

Athletes and officials will not be required to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in order to take part in this year's Tokyo Games.

It comes as the International Olympic Committee published its first version of the Tokyo 2020 "Playbook" which outlines the rules and safety regulations that will be put in place later this year.

Whilst not a prerequisite to participation, the IOC said it would still encourage and assist individual countries to vaccinate their teams ahead of arrival.

The "Playbook" says everyone attending the Games will be required to download the Japanese government's contact tracing app and must outline every activity they intend on doing during their first 14 days in the country.

Athletes will be encouraged to minimize social activity in Japan and must provide a list of all those they expect to have close contact with.

Additionally, athletes and officials will be asked not to use public transport without permission and face masks must be worn at "all times" except when eating, sleeping or when in an open outdoor space. The IOC said hugging, high-fives and handshakes should be avoided and spectators should refrain from singing or chanting their support.

Failure to comply with the rules and regulations could lead to athletes being barred from competition.

[Source: CNN]