Glavina: U 2027. za lokalnu sportsku infrastrukturu osigurano 20 milijuna eura

In late July 2026, Croatia's Minister of Tourism and Sport, Tonči Glavina, announced that 20 million euros had been secured for the co-financing of the construction and reconstruction of local sports facilities by 2027. This funding was made available through a public call issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, which invited municipalities, cities, and counties to submit project proposals under six specific areas of focus. These included large soccer fields with natural or artificial turf, sports halls, outdoor sports arenas, other unspecified categories, swimming pools, and sports centers or complexes. The announcement marked another step in the government’s ongoing efforts to support the renewal and development of sports infrastructure nationwide.

The public call aims to provide financial assistance to local communities seeking to improve their sports facilities. According to Glavina, this initiative continues the government's commitment to supporting sports infrastructure since 2018, when the Croatian government first introduced systematic support for sports on the local level. Since then, approximately 600 projects have been co-financed, totaling nearly 70 million euros. When combined with funds allocated for capital projects such as the HNS Soccer Camp and the Vučevica Sports Center, along with this year's public call, the total amount secured for sports infrastructure now approaches 120 million euros.

Glavina emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism and Sport has covered all types of sports venues through various program areas within the call. He also highlighted that all proposed projects must meet minimum requirements for hosting competitions according to official guidelines set by the relevant national sports federation and should be adapted for use by para-athletes. This ensures that the new or renovated facilities will be accessible and functional for a wide range of users, including those with disabilities.

The public call remains open until August 31, providing ample time for eligible entities to prepare and submit their proposals. Detailed information about the application process, eligibility criteria, and submission procedures can be found on the ministry's designated website link. This initiative reflects a broader strategy aimed at enhancing sports accessibility and quality across Croatia, ensuring that both professional athletes and recreational participants benefit from improved facilities.

The funding allocation underscores the government's recognition of the importance of sports infrastructure in promoting physical activity, community engagement, and overall well-being. By investing in these projects, the government seeks to create more opportunities for individuals to participate in sports, whether for competitive purposes or leisure. Additionally, the inclusion of provisions for para-athletes demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and equal access to sports facilities for all members of society.

As the deadline for submissions approaches, local authorities and sports organizations are expected to mobilize resources and expertise to develop viable proposals. The success of this initiative will depend on the ability of municipalities and counties to identify pressing needs and align them with the available funding. With the public call remaining active until mid-August, there is still time for interested parties to refine their plans and ensure they meet the outlined criteria. The outcome of this funding round could significantly impact the landscape of sports infrastructure in Croatia over the coming years.