Topolánek, who had until now said he would not attend the games in protest against the Chinese intervention in Tibet, now says he will attend, to show respect for the Czech athletes participating. He has turned down the official Chinese invitation to the games, however.

Topolánek changed his decision shortly after meeting with Czech multiple-gold-medal winner javelin thrower Jan Železný, who is also a member of the International Olympic Commission. The Czech branch of the IOC will pay for Topolánek's travel expenses, but the prime minister will pay for his son, who will travel with him.

Several members of the government Cabinet oppose Topolánek's participation. In April, the prime minster asked his ministers to rule on whether he should attend and most said he should boycott the games.

"The recent events in China have led not only me, but several European and overseas leaders to the decision not to attend the opening of the Olympic Games," Topolánek announced in April. He did not consult the Cabinet on his newest decision to attend the games.

Czech President Václav Klaus will be staying home – not for political reasons, but because he is recovering from hip-replacement surgery.