The Japanese government is considering a scheme to exclude celebrities from running in next year's Olympic torch relay in order to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection from roadside crowds coming to see them, a source with knowledge of the matter said Wednesday.
Some are concerned such a move will, however, dampen enthusiasm for the marquee event, which starts March 25, and hinder the momentum leading up to the Olympics, scheduled to start on July 23 after a one-year postponement due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The government intends to consult with the games organizing committee and other bodies. Because local governments and sponsors have been involved in selecting the popular figures, executing a policy to exclude celebrities will run into a number of obstacles.