TORONTO -- Justin Bieber has postponed all of his 2020 world tour dates due to the COVID-19 crisis.

The Stratford, Ont.-raised pop superstar made the announcement on his social media accounts.

The statement says Bieber, his band and dancers have been hard at work preparing for the “Changes” tour in support of his recently released album of the same name.

But it adds “he has always put the health and well-being of his fans first and foremost.”

The statement says Bieber “is anxiously awaiting the opportunity to get back out on the road and perform in a space that is safe for everyone.”

Fans are being asked to hold onto their tickets, which will be honoured when the dates are rescheduled.

“The world is a scary place but we will all figure this out together,” Bieber said in the post.

“We held on to these dates as long as we could and I cannot wait to see all of you in person as soon as I can. Be safe and I will hopefully see you soon.”

“Changes” is Bieber's first album in five years and the follow-up to his Grammy-winning, multi-platinum album “Purpose.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 31, 2020.