The competition, which was due to take place behind closed doors in the Dutch city of Valkenswaard from October 7 to 11, was set to feature four-in-hand horse teams.

"It is devastating that the FEI Driving World Championships at Valkenswaard have had to be cancelled at the last minute, as everyone involved has put in so much effort to try and make them happen," said FEI secretary general Sabrina Ibáñez.

"Sadly the new Government restrictions in the Netherlands make it impossible for the Championships to go ahead next week."

Earlier this week the Netherlands announced a series of new restrictions that will be in place for a minimum of three weeks.

These include sporting events having to be played behind closed doors, people being advised to work from home, the closure of bars and restaurants by 10pm and advice to avoid non-essential journeys between Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague.

"The start list for the Championships was looking very strong in such a challenging year for our sport, with 13 nations lined up to take part, including eight with full teams, but it is clear that health considerations have to take priority," added Ibáñez.

"We have done everything possible to hold these Championships, including looking at a possible alternative venue in Germany, and we are very grateful for the proposal we received, but regrettably it is simply not feasible given the short timeframe, ongoing concerns around COVID-19 and restrictions imposed by the authorities."

The United States of America, which won gold on home ground at the FEI World Equestrian Games 2018 in Tryon, was not going to be defending its team title as they had just one driver named, although Australia’s Boyd Exell, who took the individual title on the final day in North Carolina two years ago, was aiming to defend his crown.

Australia, Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands and Poland were all due to send teams to the Championships, while Austria, Romania, Switzerland, Uruguay and the United States were the five nations due to send individuals.

Driving, described as the oldest competitive equestrian sport, sees drivers sit on a vehicle drawn by a horse or pony and contest three trials – dressage, marathon and obstacle driving.