Tokyo World Athletics Championships Opening Ceremony

On September 13, Governor Koike attended the opening ceremony of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 at the National Stadium. His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Akishino was also present, along with World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.

In the host city address, the governor remarked, “Four years have passed since we held the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games amid the COVID pandemic, in the silence of empty stands. Today, we are thrilled to welcome a capacity crowd from home and abroad to this stadium, the stage for the World Athletics Championships, returning here after 34 years. Welcome to Tokyo. We are delighted to have you here.”

She continued, “Tokyo is a unique city, like no other. While the history, culture, and spirit of Edo live on through traditional performing arts and festivals, Tokyo is also a cutting-edge metropolis. Here, aircraft powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) carry passengers, and Japan's next-generation solar cells—thin, lightweight, and flexible ‘Air Solar’—light your path. Against this backdrop of tradition and innovation, the fierce competitions among the world's top athletes will surely inspire excitement and hope across the globe, especially among the children who will lead the next generation.” 

In closing, she said, “Children have been involved in preparing for the championships and will be cheering from the stands. We believe they will receive the baton—the power of sport—and pass it on to the future. The nine days of excitement are about to begin. Athletes, show us your best. We’ll give you our full support. And to everyone in the stadium, and those watching the broadcasts around the world, let's make this event together with your passionate cheers and applause. Let's make the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 a tremendous event, a memory that lasts a lifetime."