One of the biggest debates is not only to hold the Olympics this year but allow fans. The organizing committee officials and IOC decided to set a limit where local fans could attend the Games with up to 10,000 people (or 50% capacity) in each venue. Here are the highlights:

• The decision to hold fans there contradicts the country’s top medical adviser, Dr. Shigeru Omi. He previously said it would be abnormal to have the Olympics there period. However, he said recently the safest way is by having no fans to be at the venues.
• Local organizing committee president Seiko Hashimoto knows they need to be flexible and adapt to the situation. Five-party meetings will be implemented again if there are changes that need to be made. Also, they’ll consider no spectators if Japan gets into a state of emergency again. 
• Fans from abroad were banned months ago, and local fans will be under strict guidelines, which include wearing masks and going straight home after the games.
• Having fans not only increases the risk of spreading the virus at venues, but commuter trains, restaurants, and other spaces. 
• Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga favored fans attending and would change things up if Japan got back into a state of emergency. His concern is having a safe and secure Olympics.
• There’s still strong opposition to the Olympics, but more people are supporting it. However, a poll said 53% wanted no fans to attend and 42% said they were fine with fans attending just as long as it’s with limits.
• While the curve has flattened, the new variant may drive up the cases. Health officials are on the lookout to see what happens.