Tokyo 2020 chief executive Toshirō Mutō said he could not guarantee that the Olympic Games would take place on the recently changed date from July 23 to August 8, 2021, international news agencies reported after a video conference call with the authority.

Mutō acknowledged that the Covid19 coronavirus pandemic could impact even the new dates of the grand event.

“I don’t think anyone can say whether it will be possible for this to be under control by next July. We are definitely not in a position to give a clear answer so I think what we can do is work to prepare for the Games. We sincerely hope that humans can overcome the coronavirus crisis,” Mutō said.

The authority suggested that there are no alternative plans to the proposed dates for 2021 and said: “Instead of making an alternative plan, we should put all our effort into it. Humanity should be able to unite all its technology and wisdom  to work hard and develop treatments, medicines and vaccines.”

He did not comment on the economic losses that  The date changes have meant changes to the organisation of the games.

Japan was one of the countries with the best response to the coronavirus, partially freeing up the movement of people in cities, and currently has 5300 confirmed cases and 88 deaths.