Hiroshi Sasaki announced his decision after a report on Wednesday revealed his suggestion about Naomi Watanabe, a hugely popular celebrity, for the opening ceremony.
It is just the latest headache for organisers of the coronavirus-delayed Games, who are struggling for public support mid-pandemic and were left reeling by former chief Yoshiro Mori’s sexist remarks last month.
In a statement released early Thursday, Sasaki apologised to Watanabe and said he understood his proposal had been inappropriate. “My idea would be a huge insult to Ms.
Naomi Watanabe. This can’t be taken back,” he said. “I regret this from the bottom of my heart, and I deeply apologise to her and everyone who felt discomfort over this,” he added.
Read more on msn.com