Fans of Kumamon, the loveable bear mascot of the Kumamoto prefecture in Japan, have been handed some devastating news.

According to Japan Today, Kumamon has been denied the opportunity to serve as an Olympic Torchbearer ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Could Kumamon bear the Flame of Olympus?

The Japan segment of the relay will begin on March 26, 2020 in Fukushima Prefecture.

Around 10,000 runners will bear the flame across the country in 121 days.

The prefectural government of Kumamoto had approached the organising committee of the Games to suggest that the bear would be a perfect participant of the Torch Relay.

After all, Kumamon is world-famous, has earned billions in revenue and perhaps just as important, is really cute.

Kumamon does not qualify to be a Torchbearer

But apparently, the committee officials ruled against Kumamon because the requirement to be a Torchbearer is clear.

One has to be a person born before April 1, 2008 to qualify.

As Kumamon's age is a mystery — no one knows exactly when he was born — he cannot take part.

Also, while Kumamon is not strictly a bear, he's clearly not human either.

Kumamon still might be involved

The committee's decision is clear. Japan Today quoted a committee official, who said: "A special exception is not permitted."

Despite this setback, the prefectural government of Kumamoto hopes that Kumamon can still be involved in the festivities.

So don't lose hope, Kuma-fans!

Top image from seongwuswndx Twitter.