Yoshiro Mori, chairman of the organizing committee of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, apologized but did not resign after criticizing the "talkative" women at sports organizations.

Mr. Mori, 83, the former prime minister of Japan known for his controversial statements, said at a meeting of the Japan Olympic Committee (JOC) this week that meetings with many women attended were often dragged.

"Women tend to be very competitive. If a woman raises her hand to speak, everyone else feels the need to say. Everyone ends up having to say something," said Mr. Mori of the time.

At a hastily arranged press conference today, Mr. Mori expressed "deep regret", admitting the statements were "inappropriate" and contrary to Olympic spirit.

"I don't think about resigning. I've worked hard and been devoted to the Tokyo Olympics for seven years."

When asked why he blames women for talking too much at meetings, he replied: "I don't talk to women that much these days, so I don't know."

Japanese media reported many people attending the JOC online meeting laughed at Mr. Mori's statement, but female politicians and sports managers expressed indignation.

"His comments go against the spirit of the Olympics to condemn discrimination and call for friendship, solidarity and fairness," Renho, a prominent opposition parliamentarian, wrote on Twitter.

Kaori Yamaguchi, a leadership member in the JOC who has advocated for an increase in the number of women on Japan's sports committees, accused Mr. Mori of influencing the Tokyo Olympics message.

"Gender equality and consideration of people with disabilities were mentioned in the Tokyo Olympics," she said.

Mr. Mori has previously apologized for "careless" statements in an interview but stated that he does not mean to take women lightly.

"My wife was angry at me last night," he said.

Japan consistently ranks low for gender equality globally, ranking 121st out of 153 countries, according to the World Economic Forum's 2020 World Economic Forum report.

The JOC is working to improve women's presence by doubling the proportion of women on its 25-member executive board to 40%.