As Covid-19 infections soar in much of Europe - and indeed the world - Japan is relaxing the rule limiting the size of crowds at professional sports, concerts and other events from September 19, saying there are signs nation-wide coronavirus cases are more under control.

The government will lift the 5,000-person cap on large events, allowing them to hold up to 50 per cent of their capacity, officials said.

 

For smaller events such as classical music concerts and ballet performances, the attendance cap will be fully scrapped, though restrictions will remain in place for live music events.