An inaugural European Games could take place in Azerbaijan in 2015, British Olympic Association CEO Andy Hunt revealed on Twitter this morning.

BOA chief Hunt said that a continental Games was given the green light at the European Olympic Committee's 41st general assembly in Rome.

He tweeted: "European Olympic Committee GA vote yes to inaugural European Games in Baku, Azerbaijan, June 2015. Likely 15 sports. 7000 athletes."

The secret ballot passed with 38 in favor, eight against and three abstaining, according to The AP.

The event, which would be held every four years, will include 15 of the 28 summer Olympic sports, plus two non-Olympic sports.

There is said to be considerable opposition to the idea of a new event, particularly from the European Athletics Association, which has already voted against the participation of its members.