Netherlands chosen to host 2019 European Games

Image source, Baku 2015

Image caption, The inaugural European Games will be held in Baku from 12-28 June

The Netherlands has been chosen to host the second European Games, the European Olympic Committee has announced.

Azerbaijan will stage the inaugural event in Baku next month, and the Dutch were the only bidders for 2019.

EOC president Patrick Hickey said the Dutch proposition "prioritises flexibility, sustainability and world-class quality".

The Azerbaijan Games will allow 11 sports qualifying opportunities for the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

However, swimming and athletics will take place with second-tier athletes.