French swim federation joins US counterpart in Olympics delay call

France's swimming federation on Saturday joined its US counterpart in calling for Tokyo Olympics to be postponed because of coronavirus pandemic, ding to pressure on IOC.

" current context does t allow 2020 Olympic Games to be organised properly," federation said after a videoconference of its executive committee.

federation called for International Olympic Committee to "study possibility of a postponement".It said measures restricting movement of people in many countries, including France, "mean that sporting fairness cant be guaranteed in terms of preparation for this competition". call followed that of USA Swimming which on Friday urged US Olympic and Paralympic Committee to back a postponement.

"We urge USOPC, as a leer within Olympic Movement, to use its voice and speak up for athletes," USA Swimming CEO Tim Hinchey said in a letter.IOC President Thomas Bach insisted this week it was "premature" to consider postponing Tokyo Games, which are scheduled to start on July 24.