The car company’s move was characterized by the local Kyodo News as an effort to “prevent its brand from being damaged as the Games are going ahead despite strong public opposition and fears of a further spread of coronavirus.”
Masa Takaya, a Tokyo 2020 spokesperson, said sponsors each make its own decisions on their messages. “There is a mixed public sentiment towards the Games," Takaya said, according to the Associated Press. "I need to emphasize that those partners and companies have been very supportive to Tokyo 2020. They are passionate about making these Games happen.”
Toyota has provided 3,340 vehicles for transporting athletes and staff members and is still promoting the athletes it sponsors on its website※.