"In reference to Article 14 of the International Olympic Committee's Code of Ethics, I wish to underline that I am fully committed to abiding by the rules established by the IOC," said Inose, who was mobbed by journalists after a press conference in Tokyo today.

"At the interview I underscored Tokyo's strengths as a city and its ability to provide the best platform for athletes, Olympic Family members and spectators alike.

"Unfortunately, the article in question focused on a small number of comments relating to another bid city and therefore did not reflect my sincere and wider thoughts on the 2020 bid campaign.

"I regrettably acknowledge, however, that some of my words might be considered inappropriate and consequently would like to offer my sincere apology.

"My overwhelming passion and desire for Tokyo to host the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games remain strong.

"I look forward to the remainder of the bid campaign, where we will continue to enjoy a respectful and friendly rivalry with the other bid cities."

Tokyo Governor Naoki Inose with Sir Craig Reedie, chairman of the IOC Evaluation Commission, during his visit to Tokyo last month

The New York Times sports editor Jason Stallman, meanwhile, revealed that the quotes used in the article had actually been provided by Inose's own translator.

"Both New York Times reporters who interviewed Governor Inose are fluent in Japanese," he said.

"The Governor also provided his own translator for the interview, and our quotations came from that translator.

"The translator's words were recorded."

This is not the first occasion on which a Tokyo Olympic bid has been in trouble with the IOC.

Officials involved in Tokyo's unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics were warned by the IOC after comments made by Japanese diplomats to Brazilian Olympic Committee President Carlos Nuzman, which questioned why Rio de Janeiro were bidding when the country had already been awarded the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

On that occasion Tokyo were given a slap across the wrist. 

Takeda, who is also an IOC member, will be hoping that Inose's apology draws a line under this latest incident.

"Our strong understanding towards abiding by the IOC guidelines and our utmost respect for all Candidate Cities remain unchanged," he said. 

"We have noted Governor Inose's comments in the article published by The New York Times on 27 April, and it is with regret we realise that some have questioned our strong commitment towards following the IOC rules.

"Governor Inose completely understands the IOC rules.

"Although his sincere thoughts differ from the content of the story published, he acknowledges that his comments related to another bid city and religion may have conflicted with the IOC guidelines and, as a result, offered his profound apologies at a press briefing today.

"With the firm understanding all Candidate Cities bid in a spirit based on the Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship, we promise to reaffirm our utmost respect for the IOC guidelines.

"Our city's desire to host the 2020 Games remains strong.

"We will continue to respect the IOC rules and give our all during the remainder of the bidding process."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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