Russia were the dominant nation once again as they bagged a superb hat-trick of European Games gold medals on the final day of wrestling competitions here today.

Russia claimed both the men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics team competition European Games gold medals here to firmly back up their billing as pre-tournament favourites.

Azerbaijan added two more karate gold medals to the two they won yesterday to finish top of the sport’s medal standings at the inaugural European Games. 

Russia were the dominant force on the opening day of men's Greco-Roman wrestling action here, winning three of the four gold medals available with the other going to hosts Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan, France and Turkey each won two gold medals here on a night which showcased all karate had to offer in its bid for Olympic inclusion, and provided some home success to get the inaugural European Games off to a strong sporting start.

The countdown to Europe’s first continental multi-sport Games is officially over after the Opening Ceremony of Baku 2015, which saw a sold-out Olympic Stadium in the Azerbaijan’s capital city treated to spectacular performances, including from international music star Lady Gaga.

Konul Nurullayeva
Chef de Mission, Azerbaijan

The Azerbaijani Government are trying to “crackdown on freedom of expression” after Amnesty International were denied entry into the country ahead of the inaugural European Games in Baku, a spokesperson for the organisation told insidethegames.

Baku 2015's European Games Flame has visited the city of Shamakhi for another Festival of Fire, continuing its epic journey here across the host nation.

Einius Petkus
Chef de Mission, Lithuania

The Baku 2015 European Games Flame has arrived in the ancient town of Agdam marking the completion of the first third of its journey across Azerbaijan.

The World Karate Federation has announced the final list of athletes who have qualified to compete at the inaugural European Games in Baku this year.