Organisers have announced the event, which had been due to take place from May 17 to 23, will now be held from May 16 to 22 in 2021.

"We are extremely happy to be able to share this news with our sport community and our fans," said World Para Swimming manager Georgios Antoniou.

"We understand that these have been difficult months due to the uncertainties caused by the pandemic, but we have been in continuous contact with the local Organising Committee and the Madeira authorities to be able to find new dates for the competition.

"The European Open Championships is the last major event before the Tokyo Paralympic Games and we believe the move is the best option to allow athletes and teams to better plan their activities ahead of next season. 

"We look forward to a great competition and to seeing our athletes in action again."

Around 500 swimmers from more than 50 countries are set to compete at the Penteada Swimming Complex in Madeira’s capital Funchal.

The competition will still be jointly organised by the Portuguese Swimming Federation (FPN), the Madeira Swimming Association, the Municipal Chamber of Funchal and the Government of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.

As an open event, athletes from all continents will be able to take part.

"Just after the pandemic caused by COVID-19, and the inevitable consequences of the confinement in many countries around the world, it is a great responsibility and honour to host in 2021 the World Para Swimming European Open Championships Madeira 2020," said FPN President Antonio Jose Silva.

"With the major contribution of local authorities, we will for sure organise an amazing event which all the athletes will greatly remember. 

"It’s time to become more global again.  

"We hope to meet you all in May."