The name reflects the volunteers' central role in promoting the spirit of the event, it has been explained, and is also an homage to Azerbaijan, the Land of Fire, and the "passion and warmth" of its people.

"The European Games volunteer programme offers a fantastic opportunity for young people to get involved with Baku 2015 and support Azerbaijan on the international stage, said Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijan's Minister of Youth and Sports and chief executive officer of Baku 2015.

"All of our Flamekeepers will gain valuable experience while taking part in a landmark moment in the history of our country, with the programme leaving a lasting legacy of delivering a major multi-sport event in Azerbaijan."

The announcement comes following the beginning of the recruitment process for the 12,500 Games volunteers, with over 16,000 hopefuls having already applied online for selection, with an interview process having now commenced.

A total of 12,500 volunteers will be recruited for the Baku 2015 European Games
©Baku 2015



Volunteers are an increasingly important element of any major multi-sport event, with the Flamekeepers set to follow in the footsteps of the Gamesmakers at the London 2012 Olympic Games, and then the Clydesiders at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. 

Flamekeepers can expect to enjoy key roles during Baku 2015, including assisting athletes and dignitaries, working at sport competitions, or providing assistance to spectators or the media.

In return, they will benefit from free public transport to venues, uniforms, meals, and a SIM card provided by Nar Mobile, the Official Partner of the Baku 2015 volunteer programme.

Farhad Hajiyev, Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Youth Foundation and Baku 2015 Organising Committee Board member, added: "The chance to take part in the first European Games and welcome the whole of Europe to Baku is tremendously exciting for the people of Azerbaijan.

"We have one of Europe's youngest populations and becoming a Flamekeeper will be a great opportunity for young people to contribute to our country's renowned hospitality and enthusiasm for sport.

"At any major multi-sport Games the athletes are the heart of the event and the volunteers are the soul. 

"The Flamekeepers will help make Baku 2015 a spectacular celebration of sport this summer and leave a lasting legacy which will keep the volunteer flame burning when Azerbaijan hosts many more major international events in the future."

More information on how to apply for the Baku 2015 Volunteer Programme can be found here. 

Contact the writer of this story at nick.butler@insidethegames


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