As organizers approach the final one-year countdown to the Tokyo Olympics, their efforts have earned the approval of one of the key figures in the successful execution of the 2012 London Olympics.
Speaking to The Japan Times on Friday, former London 2012 commercial director Chris Townsend said that Tokyo 2020 would find success thanks to Japan's enthusiasm for sports and eagerness to experience the Olympics in person.
"Japanese fans are very passionate about sport, and that counts significantly toward a successful Olympic games," said Townsend, who took the role after steering the English capital's bid while serving as the marketing director of Transport for London. "Having the country behind you, having the Japanese population get behind the games and wanting to buy tickets and see the events is critical."