This issue of stamps commemorates the Games of the XXXII Olympiad, more popularly known as the 2020 Summer Olympic Games. To be held in Tokyo, Japan from 23 July to 8 August 2021, it has kept its 2020 Games moniker after the global coronavirus pandemic made it the first edition to be postponed in the Olympics' centuries-long history.

REVIVAL AND RECOVERY The largest and most complex sporting event in the world has its roots in ancient Greece, where it ran every four years from 776 BC to 394 AD. It was revived in its modern form in 1896, and today, the dream of every athlete is to hold the coveted 'Olympian' title.

The familiar five rings - in blue, yellow, black, green and red to match at least one colour in every flag in the world - were to have been hoisted over Tokyo, Japan in 2020. When the global coronavirus pandemic roiled the world that year, though, the Games were not spared. The first edition to be postponed in its centuries-long history, the 2020 Games, while keeping its name, is now set to be held from 23 July to 8 August 2021. Tokyo, host for a second time, has billed it as the "Recovery Olympics", a symbol of solidarity and an inspiration for people struggling in a sombre time.

A SIGNIFICANT GAMES This theme of recovery is carried in the time-honoured torch relay. Lit at Fukushima - the rehabilitated site of the 2011 triple devastations of earthquake, tsunami and nuclear reactor meltdown - the Olympic flame will traverse the 47 prefectures of Japan before it reaches Tokyo for the Games opening ceremony.

The much-anticipated sporting spectacular welcomes some 11,000 athletes from 200 countries, competing in 33 sports covering 50 disciplines and 339 medal events. While most of the events will be staged throughout the Japanese capital, the 43 official venues also bring cycling to the foothills of Mount Fuji and marathons to Sapporo, among others.

COVID-19, though, portends a Games with an atmosphere quite different from others before. New health and safety protocols for delegates and fans alike may dampen celebrations or hamper alliance-building, but what is certain is that the long-standing Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship will prevail.