On the eve of the inaugural European Games in Azerbaijan, the future of the tournament was put in doubt after The Netherlands pulled out from staging the 2019 multi-level tournament.
European Olympic Committee president Pat Hickey said that the development was 'disappointing ', adding that they were confident that the inaugural European Games in Baku would be the ideal showcase for the new event and its long-term sporting, social and economic benefits, the Guardian reported.
He also said that he had no doubt that they would be able to present a strong host for the 2019 European Games.
The first European Games in Baku will see athletes from nations across the continent compete in 20 sports.
The European Olympic Committee, which granted The Netherlands hosting rights last month, said it will now resume talks with five other potential hosts.
