Tokyo 2020 explains to realise a safe and secure torch relay

The Olympic torch relay is yet another hurdle for the postponed Tokyo Games and any stumble could sow more doubts about the risk of holding the Olympics in a pandemic.

Tokyo 2020 organizers held a press conference Tuesday to explain the specific COVID-19 countermeasures planned for implementation during the torch relay.

"We have come to the conclusion that we should focus on organizing a safe and secure torch relay," Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto said.  "I believe that holding the torch relay safely will ultimately contribute to boosting the Olympic movement."

The start of the relay on March 25 from northeastern Fukushima prefecture kicks off four months of crossing Japan with the torch.

It will involve 10,000 runners, and the chance of spreading COVID-19 is a real threat.

Fans along the roadside will be asked to social distance, wear masks and cheer quietly, and organizers warn they will stop, or reroute the torch if they need to.