As Japan ramps up its response to the coronavirus outbreak, one of the largest sporting events in the nation will be curtailed, with participation in the Tokyo Marathon limited to elite runners and wheelchair competitors, organizers said Monday.

Thousands of runners will no longer be able to participate in the event next month due to growing fears over a domestic outbreak of COVID-19.

The decision to eliminate general participation in the largest marathon in Asia emerged amid growing debate surrounding Tokyo's preparations to host the 2020 Olympic Games in July despite the ongoing viral outbreak.