It was always going to be difficult for IOC to get new events in & stick to their 10,500 limit. I wish they could have increased it to 12,000 but they did find a way out by limiting the quota to core sports ONLY. I see that as a very positive & well thought out by both LOC & IOC.
I have mixed feelings on these changes but overall can’t complain much as it could have been worse.
The good part:
1. Compound Archery will be a great addition to the programme albeit only in mixed team event. Sadly this means losing quotas from Recurve, which will make the qualification process more challenging.
2. TT events : Getting the doubles event is an excellent call plus we have a team event too . The men’s & women’s team events were so predictable. This 3 format will throw up opportunities & surprises . Most importantly it will add to the viewing experience as matches are expected to be tighter & shorter.
3. Basketball 3x3 is a growing sport & increasing the number of teams is certainly the right call. It was expected.
4. Sport climbing : The programme looks complete now & again on expected lines.
The OK part:
1. Boxing : Keeping the total quota places same & increasing a single weight class in women’s event was expected.
2. Additional swimming events : Considering the hosts for the next two olympics are swimming dominant nations. This was expected.
3. Mixed Golf : This is a good idea & will be an intresting event to watch.
The Bad part:
1. Football : if you are so worried about maintaining the quota limit why not just make both events a 12 team one. I can understand the reduction in men’s but increase the women’s team event.
2. Athletics : This change doesn’t make much sense. Perhaps an additional 🥇 for . Why would you take away a race walking event only to replace it with another track event.
3. Tennis : I don’t like this idea of mixed team , XD was a better format for me.
4. Gymnastics: A mixed team event will not add anything to the programme. Perhaps again a lot to do with the LOC than FIG or IOC.