Tokyo Tower in Minato City, Tokyo, Japan

© Yukinori Hasumi/Getty Image

Let the games (finally) begin!

Shining like an Olympic torch, the Tokyo Tower is our cue to say, finally: ‘Let the games begin!' Along with so much else, the 2020 Summer Olympic Games were postponed last year but will finally begin in Tokyo today, almost exactly a year later. These Olympics will look a little different from past games. A recent spike in coronavirus cases has led to a state of emergency in Tokyo, so Olympic organisers have barred spectators from most events. Nevertheless, officials are determined that the Tokyo Olympics will be a demonstration of fortitude in the face of adversity.

The events will be held at 42 venues in and around the city, with most held in Tokyo itself. Organisers expect some 11,000 athletes from about 200 countries to compete. Four sports will make their Olympic debuts at the Tokyo Games: karate, sport climbing, surfing and skateboarding. Also, baseball and softball, which were last held in 2008, are being reintroduced. Closing ceremonies are scheduled for 8 August. Game on!