The IOC said the Games had a strict list of regulations to ensure the Games were "safe and successful", and that the dates would be kept to schedule. A ban on foreign spectators in Beijing means tickets will only be sold to fans who live and work in China.
"Selling tickets to spectators residing in mainland China will give them a first-hand experience of the Olympic and Paralympic winter sports competitions, and create a vibrant atmosphere for the competition venues," said an IOC representative. "All parties feel sorry for spectators around the world, but this restriction is necessary to ensure the safety of the entire Olympic Games."
According to Reuters, this announcement was made when China had vaccinated about 79% of the country's population. (Photo: Internet)
Unvaccinated athletes will have to quarantine for 21 days upon entering China, but 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.
Fully vaccinated people can enter the “closed-loop management system” – a bubble that includes everything 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 bodies.
Although the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place from February 4 to 20, 2022, due to concerns that Covid-19 infections could increase at any time, international organizations have been investigating to find the best measures to keep athletes, staff and people at the event site safe.
