The Organising Committee concluded two conditions - COVID-19 countermeasures and easing restrictions on entry to Japan - would be needed for the Games to go ahead.

But it said it was "not possible to determine whether we are able to establish a system which we can be operated with confidence".

Organisers have not yet confirmed new dates for the event, which it said would take place "at a time which we believe it would be the most practical time to hold the Games".

The postponement of the Games, an international multi-sport event held every four years, will be discussed at the  International Masters Games Association General Assembly on November 4.

"There is a possibility that we must impose severe restrictions on the participants, and that will create conflict with the philosophy of the World Masters Games," organisers said in a statement.

"We apologise for any inconvenience which may cause to more than 14,000 participants who have already registered to the Games, however above all, we will make a decision on the necessary matters as promptly as possible in order to respond with full consideration to those participating in the Games. 

"In addition, we would like to make our best effort to resolve various challenges in cooperation with the host municipalities, National Federations, and sponsors who have worked hard to prepare for the Games."

A total of 65 sports were set to feature at the Games in the Japanese city, the 10th edition of the event.

Organisers said they had been " exploring the possibility of holding the World Masters Games 2021 Kansai in May 2021 as originally scheduled" up until the decision to postpone.

Japan has recorded more than 98,000 cases and at least 1,700 deaths from COVID-19.

The country is scheduled to host the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, pushed back to 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Auckland hosted the last World Masters Games in 2017.