The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Sunday that masks are a "must to have" at Tokyo medal ceremonies after swimmers were seen taking off masks on the medal podium and hugging other competitors in violation of COVID-19 rules. Masks are mandatory across all Olympic venues, both inside and outside for all athletes, staff and media, as part of Games organisers' strict measures to combat the coronavirus. It's a must to have," said IOC spokesman Mark Adams, responding to questions about the mask-less swimmers. "We understand ... there's a lot of excitement and of course when you win a medal, we feel for the athletes," Adams said. Organisers announced another 10 positive COVID-19 cases to Games-related individuals on Sunday, bringing the total to 132 cases since July 1.

Source: Mint July 25, 2021 03:56 UTC