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Tokyo Olympics will now bar all spectators

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PHILIP FONG/AFP via Getty Images

The Olympics will take place without spectators after Japan issued a state of emergency for Tokyo that will run through late August.

Local fans were originally permitted at Olympic venues in a limited capacity, but a spike in COVID-19 cases has forced organizers to ban spectators altogether.

According to ESPN, Tokyo reported 920 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, the highest number since May 13.

Tokyo’s new state of emergency, its fourth during the pandemic, will begin on July 12 and run through Aug. 22. The safety measures will also request establishments halt alcohol sales in an effort to scale back Olympic-related public gatherings.

The Olympic Games are set to begin on July 23.