Tokyo 2020: Mixed-gender relays, 3-on-3 hoops approved by IOC

Men and women are set to compete together in mixed relays in track and field, swimming and triathlon at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

The plans were announced Friday as part of the approved event program released by the IOC that also includes 3-on-3 basketball and BMX freestyle.

"I am delighted that the Olympic Games in Tokyo will be more youthful, more urban and will include more women," IOC president Thomas Bach said in a statement.

Under the proposal, a new mixed 4x400m relay will be on show on the track, while fans at the pool will witness the first 4x100m medley mixed relay.

Mixed events have also been put forward in archery, judo, shooting and table tennis.

Three sports — boxing, canoeing and rowing — will sacrifice some men's events in the name of gender balance, while further events have been added to the swimming, track cycling and fencing programs.

Despite a net increase of 15 events, there will be a reduction of 285 athletes compared to Rio 2016.

"The fascinating new events that we approved today, together with the five new sports that were added to the Tokyo 2020 program last year, represent a step-change in the Olympic program," Bach said.

Baseball/softball, karate, sport climbing, surfing and skateboarding already had been confirmed as new additions to the Olympic schedule for 2020.