The Ainu are an indigenous people of Japan originating in Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, north-eastern Honshu, and islands between Japan and Russia.
But at the same time, there is a perception in foreign countries that Prime Minister Abe is nationalist, conservative. Therefore, there has been some misunderstanding.
At stake are tens of billions of dollars and Japan's national pride but for athletes a lifetime of dedication hangs in balance as does their mental well being.