The most troubled Olympics in modern history finally get under way in Tokyo on Friday, struggling to emerge from the clutches of Covid-19 after a one-year postponement and following a build-up marred by scandal and controversy. Watch FRANCE 24's special programme on the Games' kickoff at 12 o'clock Paris time (GMT+2).
- Friday's opening ceremony will take place with the Japanese capital in a state of emergency amid a spike in Covid-19 infections
- Pandemic restrictions mean that for the first time in Olympic history, no domestic or overseas spectators will be allowed to attend the Games
- Fears that the gathering of 11,000 athletes could trigger a spike in infections have prompted organisers to put the Games in a biosecure straitjacket
- A record 339 medal events will be held across 33 sports, with five new sports - including skateboarding and surfing - added to the programme
Originally published on France24