Broadcaster pulls plug on scandal-hit sumo 07/07/2010 |
|
| |
| |
Japan's state broadcaster says it will not show the next sumo tournament live because of the gambling scandal that has hit the sport.
It is the first time NHK has not shown a tournament live in more than 50 years.
The decision comes two days after sumo authorities dismissed a top wrestler and coach from the sport.
The two had admitted being involved in illegal betting on baseball – an alleged source of funding for Japan's "yakuza" gangsters.
Dozens of members of the sumo establishment have been caught up in the scandal, which is the latest in a series to hit the sumo world.
Government-run NHK has televised each of the six annual sumo tournaments since 1953.
But it said it would not transmit live broadcasts of the Nagoya tournament, which runs from July 11-25, because of a flood of complaints from viewers.
It will instead show a delayed and shortened highlights programme each day.
"This is a very significant and regrettable issue," NHK chairman Shigeo Fukuchi said. "We have received very severe opinions from our viewers every day."
A number of sponsors have already pulled out from the tournament over the scandal.
|
| Back |
| |
| |
|
|
 |
Advertisement
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
