The joint decision by the Japanese government and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is proportional to the severity of the health crisis we are facing. It mirrors the need to rank human health and efforts to stop this virus spreading above any other consideration.

Paris 2024 commends the IOC and Japanese authorities: faced with an unprecedented and extremely complex situation, they chose the best possible scenario. Postponing the world’s largest sporting event is not an easy decision. The IOC and organisers took the time to consider all the options, in close cooperation with all the stakeholders and in accordance with the WHO’s recommendations. They listened to the sporting world’s concerns. Deferring the Tokyo Games will provide the athletes with optimal conditions to prepare and compete in them.

As the organisers of the Paris 2024 Games, the organising committee, the sporting movement in France - CNOSF, CPSF - and public stakeholders – Paris city council, Greater Paris Metropolis, Seine-Saint-Denis departmental authorities, Ile-de-France Region, the French government, SOLIDEO and all the host authorities - we salute the spirit of responsibility and adaptation demonstrated by Tokyo 2020 in this unprecedented event. Their example will make us stronger and fitter to deal with the contingencies of our time.

With solidarity, we will stand alongside the Japanese Organising Committee to provide our full support as it takes on the new organisational challenge.

The Games are a huge brotherly and sisterly festivity. When the circumstances are right, we will be glad to see every nation gather again around Olympic and Paralympic values and celebrate sport.