News On Japan

IOC President Bach Welcomes Japan’s Future Olympic Bids

TOKYO, May 09 (News On Japan) - International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, who is set to retire in June, gave an interview in Tokyo on May 8th, where he expressed a positive stance toward Japan’s potential bid to host future Olympic Games, saying such a move would be "highly welcomed" if the conditions are right.

In the interview with Kyodo News, Bach acknowledged concerns about past corruption linked to Japanese business practices in connection with Olympic bids, but noted that if the IOC can be confident those issues have been addressed, Japan would be enthusiastically welcomed back into the Olympic fold at the highest level.

"We understand what happened in Japan regarding the business practices of some Japanese firms. If we can be sure on the IOC side that this kind of corruption is over and has been addressed, Japan is very much welcome back," Bach stated.

He highlighted Japan’s strong sports credentials, pointing out that the country is set to host major events such as the Asian Games and several world championships. He also praised Japanese athletes for their achievements during the Tokyo Games, calling them some of the most successful in Olympic history.

Reflecting on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Bach emphasized that contrary to media skepticism at the time, public support in Japan was extremely strong, with 90% of the population watching the Games and cheering on their athletes.

Bach also shared personal reflections on his time leading the IOC, suggesting that one of his most memorable moments may come after the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, marking the symbolic end of his tenure. He described that moment as filled with mixed emotions—joy and relief.

Speaking about his successor, Bach expressed strong confidence, stating that the newly elected president has both the professional and human qualities to lead the IOC into a brighter future. "She has a clear compass of Olympic values and is well qualified to guide the Olympic movement forward," he said.

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

A permanent gate has been installed at the Yamanashi Prefecture entrance to the fifth station of Mt. Fuji, unveiled on June 13. Authorities hope the new measure will help address the ongoing problem of reckless climbing attempts.

A former resort area in the Otamoi district of Otaru City has hit a major roadblock in its redevelopment plans. "This is the Otamoi coastline," explained a Ryugu Cruise guide. "There used to be a building here called Ryugukaku, a high-end restaurant. It's hard to believe."

The Pension System Reform Law was passed and enacted at the Upper House plenary session on June 13th with majority support from the Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, the Constitutional Democratic Party and others.

Riding a bicycle while holding an umbrella, a practice often seen during the rainy season in Japan, poses significant danger as it becomes more frequent with the arrival of June rains.

The Diet has passed legislation to establish the Science Council of Japan as an independent corporation, separating it from direct government control.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Sports NEWS

Former Yokozuna Hakuho Sho, 40, held a press conference in Tokyo on June 9th to announce his resignation from the Japan Sumo Association and to outline his future plans. The association had already stated on June 2nd that it would formally accept his resignation on the 9th.

Shigeo Nagashima, known affectionately as "Mr. Professional Baseball," was remembered at his funeral in Tokyo on June 8th, following his death from pneumonia on June 3rd at age 89.

Shigeo Nagashima, one of Japan’s most iconic postwar figures and known as "Mr. Pro Baseball," has died at the age of 89, it was learned on June 3rd. A native of Chiba Prefecture, Nagashima helped define an era of professional baseball and became a national hero.

Toyota's hydrogen engine vehicle, which competed in a 24-hour endurance race over the weekend, is continuing to evolve with the aim of mass production.

Toyota Motor has announced plans to enter the racing kart business, positioning the move as a strategic step toward preparing the next generation for the future of the automobile industry.

An international triathlon competition featuring a rare moat swim was held on May 25th at Osaka Castle Park.

Ōnosato has secured his place as the fastest wrestler in sumo history to be promoted to the rank of yokozuna, reaching the sport’s highest title in just 13 tournaments since his debut.

The 2025 Tour of Japan, one of the world’s top-tier international cycling races, has started in Sakai, Osaka. This city, historically known for its skilled gunsmiths, later became a major hub for Japan’s bicycle industry.