Photos: Giant Olympic rings return as Tokyo bids to build excitement

Promising vaccine trials have boosted Tokyo's hopes of holding the Olympics

Published: December 01, 2020 15:23 AFP and compiled by Balaram Menon, Senior Web Editor

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A giant set of Olympic rings returned to Tokyo's waterfront on Tuesday after maintenance, with officials hoping the symbol will help build enthusiasm for the coronavirus-postponed Games. Image Credit: AFP

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Promising vaccine trials have boosted Tokyo's hopes of holding the Olympics, now scheduled to open July 23, 2021 after the pandemic forced the unprecedented decision to delay. Image Credit: AFP

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The 69-ton interlocking rings were installed in Tokyo's Odaiba bay area at the start of the year as the city began the final countdown to the Games, but were towed away in August for maintenance and inspections. Image Credit: REUTERS

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They returned Tuesday with a fresh coat of paint and plans to light them up at night. Image Credit: REUTERS

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"We are working very hard so that we can hold an Olympic Games in which people will feel safe," Tokyo city government official Atsushi Yanashimizu told reporters. Image Credit: AFP

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"With the installation of the Olympic symbol, we would like more people to feel that the event is approaching soon and to feel excited about it." Image Credit: REUTERS

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A poll in July showed that just one in four people in Japan wanted to see the Games held in 2021, with most backing either a further delay or a cancellation. Image Credit: AFP

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There are also reportedly concerns among sponsors, with organisers tightlipped on how many will extend their contracts. Image Credit: REUTERS

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Olympic and Japanese officials have said they remain committed to holding the Games next year, and International Olympic Committee head Thomas Bach said in Tokyo last month he was "very, very confident" that spectators will be able to attend. Image Credit: AFP

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The rings will stay in place until the end of the Olympics, and will then be replaced by the Paralympics symbol in mid-August. Image Credit: REUTERS

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"We would like many people to come here and see it and feel the momentum, while being cautious about virus prevention" said Yanashimizu. Image Credit: AFP

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