Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics: competitors warned they risk expulsion for breaking Covid-19 rules
- Athletes and support staff must stay within a ‘closed loop’ bubble while taking part in the Games and only used designated transport to and from the venues
- The Summer Olympics in Tokyo last year also imposed strict controls on participants
Zhang Jiandong, a vice mayor of Beijing and deputy chairman of the Games organising committee, issued the warning on Wednesday at a media briefing outlining the latest preparations for the event.
Zhang said Covid-19 was the “biggest challenge” the organisers faced and said all those involved in the Games were expected to adhere to the strict controls agreed by the Chinese authorities and International Olympic Committee.
Competitors, coaches and support staff will be expected to stay within a “closed loop” and avoid contact with the general public.
“We will strictly enforce the relevant penalties. Some details are also being communicated with the IOC,” Zhang said. “Those who do not comply with the provisions of the epidemic prevention manual may face more serious consequences such as warnings, temporary or permanent withdrawal of accreditation, ineligibility or exclusion from the Games, expulsion from the competition, and disqualification.”
Overseas athletes taking part in Beijing 2022 are expected to enter the “closed-loop bubble” at the airport if they have been fully vaccinated and will have to travel in designated vehicles and be subject to strict controls and testing, but they will enjoy a certain freedom of movement within the bubble.
Those who have not been vaccinated will have to spend 21 days in quarantine on arrival.