The Dutch Olympic committee NOC*NSF has welcomed the news that the International Olympic Committee will decide whether or not the Tokyo games should be postponed within four weeks.

The IOC said on Sunday that it would start detailed discussions to assess the worldwide health situation and its impact on the games, including the possibility that the games might be delayed.

‘The IOC is confident that it will have finalised these discussions within the next four weeks, and greatly appreciates the solidarity and partnership of the NOCs and IFs in supporting the athletes and adapting the games planning,’ the IOC said.

‘This is the news we and athletes have been waiting for,’ NOC*NSF technical director Maurits Hendricks, told Studio Sport. ‘We need clarity about the timeline. Everyone is unsure.’

Earlier the Dutch body wrote to the IOC pointing out that with sports facilities closed, it is difficult for athletes to prepare for the games.

‘In the light of the challenging situation we all face, we would appreciate if the IOC could give us insight on the central milestones in the process leading up to the final decision on Tokyo 2020,’ the letter said.

‘Our clear recommendation is that the Olympic Games in Tokyo shall not take place before the COVID-19 situation is under firm control on a global scale.’

Canada has already said it will not send athletes to the Tokyo games, if they are held from July 24 to August 9 as planned.