Before being diagnosed with the illness in May, Yuriko (pictured top, left with Naoki) had been a strong and active supporter of Tokyo's bid to host the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, often accompanying her husband on trips across the globe.

Indeed, Yuriko had been scheduled to accompany Naoki on a trip to St Petersburg for the SportAccord International Convention in May to promote the Japanese capital's bid campaign, but cancelled because of bad health.

Naoki issued a statement saying that he will continue his work and dedicate the Tokyo 2020 campaign to his late wife.

"Thanks to my wife, I was able to carry on this campaign," he said today.

"I want to continue putting my heart into this campaign in her memory."

Tokyo 2020 also issued a statement saying it is "deeply saddened" by the passing of "beloved" Yuriko.

"She was a beloved and committed force who worked behind the scenes for the Governor and the Tokyo 2020 bid, including travelling with us this year to London and New York City in January and April, respectively," a spokesman said.

"We express our most sincere condolences to the Governor and his family.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with them in this very difficult moment."

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