The competition is organised by the International Technical Committee for the Prevention and Extinction of Fire (CTIF), whose representatives from Germany, Austria and Italy are in Celje these days to inspect the venues and accommodation capacities.

Celje Mayor Bojan Šrot said on the occasion that the city would be a good host for the event, as it was capable of organising large competitions. The city has adequate infrastructure and is looking forward to 2021, the Celje Municipality said in a press release.

Franci Petek, the head of the Slovenian Association of Firefighters, said that around 3,000 competitors from at least 29 countries and several thousands of spectators were expected to bring a true Olympic spirit to Celje in 2021.

"Firefighting competitions are not only part of the educational process and testing of the preparedness of units ... but it is also an excellent method to acquire young staff," the municipality said.

It said that the 150-year tradition of firefighting in Slovenia deserved to be promoted, adding that Slovenian firefighters were recognised in Europe and wider by good results in competitions.