Japanese sumo wrestler tests positive for coronavirus, threatening yet another sporting event
The Japan sumo association said Friday a wrestler had tested positive to become the first confirmed case from Japan’s ancient sport
![](https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/XYqk7pOr/poster.jpg?width=720)
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
![Louise Thomas](https://static.independent.co.uk/static-assets/support-us/louise-thomas.png)
Louise Thomas
Editor
A Japanese sumo wrestler has tested positive for the coronavirus, further threatening postponement of next month’s Summer Grand Sumo Tournament which has already been delayed.
The Japan sumo association said Friday a wrestler had tested positive to become the first confirmed case from Japan’s ancient sport.
The wrestler, whose name has not been disclosed, first developed a fever last week, but none of his stablemates or officials have complained of symptoms of the virus.
The association has already delayed the Summer tournament in Tokyo by two weeks, setting a new starting date of May 24.
The spring tournament was held in March in Osaka without spectators. Wrestlers were forced to adhere to strict guidelines to avoid becoming infected.
Organizers said the Tokyo meet might also be held without spectators or not held depending on the situation of the pandemic.
Japanese professional baseball and soccer have been postponed because of the outbreak.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has declared a state of emergency for seven prefectures, including Tokyo and Osaka, due to a recent sharp rise in the number of new cases. AP
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments