A total of 2,100 participants, including 800 coach drivers, will complete a three-part course, covering theory classes, a practical introduction to the new vehicles, and Baku 2015 Games route and venue familiarisation.

It is estimated that drivers will have a total of 15 days of specialised training before beginning work on official routes during the Games.

A new fleet of coaches, minibuses and sedans will transport athletes, officials and national delegation members during the Games.

"Training the city's drivers will help a smooth functioning of transport services during the European Games, as well as making a lasting improvement in people's day-to-day lives," said Simon Clegg, chief operating officer of Baku 2015.

A total of 2,100 participants, including 800 coach drivers, will complete a three-part course over the coming months, covering theory classes, a practical introduction to the new vehicles, and Baku 2015 Games route and venue familiarisation ©Baku 2015



The Baku 2015 European Games Operations Committee, together with the Azerbaijani Ministry of Transportation and Baku Bus Company, the Government agency responsible for upgrading the city's bus network, is working to ensure that drivers have the skills they need to operate safely and efficiently.

"This initiative is the biggest driver training programme in the history of major sporting events, and is part of Baku 2015's commitment to leaving a human and physical legacy to Baku and Azerbaijan in transport terms," said Panos Protopsaltis, Director of Transport at Baku 2015.

"The new training centre, built to the highest international standards, will foster awareness of safety and best practices on Baku's roads."

The training course is an opportunity for the drivers to perfect their skills and become equipped to play an important role in operations during the European Games.

It will also form the basis of a Centre of Excellence for professional drivers in Azerbaijan.

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