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Tokyo 2020 Olympics

Tokyo Olympics more likely to be canceled than moved: IOC official

Dick Pound hints at late-May decision, depending on coronavirus 'control'

Giant Olympic Rings have been installed at Odaiba Marine Park in Tokyo.   © Reuters

TOKYO (AP) -- A senior member of the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday that if it proves too dangerous to hold the Olympics in Tokyo this summer because of the coronavirus outbreak, organizers are more likely to cancel it altogether than to postpone or move it.

Dick Pound, a former Canadian swimming champion who has been on the IOC since 1978, making him its longest-serving member, estimated there is a three-month window -- perhaps a two-month one -- to decide the fate of the Tokyo Olympics, meaning a decision could be put off until late May.

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