12 Oct 2016

Rowing voices concerns about possible Olympic shift

12:00 pm on 12 October 2016

Rowing's world governing body has expressed its concerns about the possibility that the Tokyo 2020 Olympic venue is to be shifted away from the Japanese capital.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Shifting the Rowing and Canoeing venue 400kms away has been suggested by organisers as a way of reducing costs for the games.

FISA President Jean-Christophe Rolland met with the Tokyo Metropolitan Governor Yuriko Koike who confirmed that they had recommended consideration to the move.

Rolland says FISA is committed to limiting costs and maximizing legacy for the people of Tokyo.

He pointed out that during their analysis of 47 rowing sites in Japan in 2014, the Sea Forest Water Sports Centre in Tokyo was the only one that meet the requirements for an Olympic Games regatta.

Rolland says the Sea Forest Water Sports Centre will also provide a strong legacy for the citizens of Tokyo.

Sea Forest Water Sports Centre has been approved by the canoeing and rowing international sports federations, the IOC, the Tokyo 2020 organising committee and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Detailed design plans have been approved by both sports. During this visit, the FISA President personally observed that construction work has commenced.

Rolland says FISA will fully engage in continuing to find financial savings and operational efficiencies for Sea Forest while ensuring a world class field of play for Tokyo 2020.

-FISA