The former world champion, now chairman of the Russian Swimming Federation, a Russian Olympic Committee Executive Committee member and an International Aquatics Federation (FINA) Bureau member, visited the Organising Committee's headquarters and went on tours of the National Gymnastics Arena, Crystal Hall and the Baku Aquatics Centre, which is currently under construction.

He was also updated on the progress of preparations for the Games and visited the newly-built Baku 2015 Athletes' Village, which will host more than 9,000 athletes and officials during next summer's event.

Vladimir Salnikov visited the newly completed National Gymnastics Arena ©Baku 2015


"It has been a pleasure to visit the Baku 2015 venues and witness the impressive progress which is being made to deliver the first-ever European Games," said Salnikov, who won gold in the 400 metres, 1500m and 4x200m freestyle at the Moscow 1980 Olympics, as well as securing gold in the 1500m at Seoul 1988.

"Competing at a home Games is a huge inspiration for any athlete, and I am sure every Azerbaijani competitor will enjoy performing at these venues and be inspired to achieve success."

The Crystal Hall, which will host boxing, fencing, indoor volleyball, karate and taekwondo at the inaugural European Games next year ©Baku 2015


James Macleod, Baku 2015's director of athlete services and operations, said he was delighted to have showed Salnikov around.

"Vladimir knows how much hard work goes in to delivering a major multi-sport event and everyone here at Baku 2015 is completely focused on producing a memorable Games for everyone involved," he added.

The Baku 2015 European Games will take place from June 12 until 28 next year and will see more than 6,000 athletes compete across 19 sports.

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