International Olympic Committee Vice President John Coates on Friday praised Tokyo as "the most prepared city we've ever seen," more than four years ahead of the 2020 Games. But Coates also scotched suggestions that the new National Stadium could be completed in time to host games at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
"For a city that is four-and-a-bit years out from the games, I don't think we've ever seen a city more prepared," said Coates, as the governing body wrapped up its fifth project review on a two-day visit to Tokyo. "We couldn't be happier."
Tokyo's preparations for the 2020 Games have been plagued by setbacks, with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe scrapping the design for the main showpiece stadium last summer amid ballooning costs, and organizers withdrawing the event logo amid accusations of plagiarism.