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The IOC stated that the Olympic Organizing Committee had issued a list of strict regulations to ensure the Games would be held "safely and successfully," and that timelines would therefore remain on schedule. The ban on foreign spectators attending the Olympics in Beijing meant that tickets would only be sold to fans living and working in China.
"Selling tickets to spectators residing in mainland China would allow them to experience the Olympic and Paralympic winter sports events firsthand, creating an electrifying atmosphere at the venues," an IOC representative shared. "Everyone feels sorry for spectators around the world, but this restriction is necessary to ensure the safety of the entire Games."
According to Reuters, this announcement comes as China has vaccinated approximately 79% of its population. (Image: Internet)
Athletes who have not been vaccinated will have to quarantine for 21 days after entering China; however, the IOC will also consider those with "reasonable medical exemptions". In addition, both international and Chinese athletes will have to undergo daily Covid-19 testing.
Those who have been fully vaccinated can participate in a "closed-loop management system"—a bubble encompassing services from food and accommodation to live matches—and they will still be subject to daily testing. China will accept any vaccine that has been approved by the World Health Organization or similar international organizations.
Although the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place from February 4th to 20th, 2022, due to concerns about a potential surge in Covid-19 cases at any time, international organizations have been investigating to find the best measures to keep athletes, staff, and residents of the event venues safe.
