FOTO U iščekivanju Thompsonova koncerta: Fanovi bili zaogrnuti zastavama, neki i u crnim majicama i HOS-ovim obilježjima

On July 4, 2026, fans of Marko Perković Thompson gathered in large numbers in Zaprešić ahead of his concert at the stadium named after Ivan Laljak Ivić. The event marked the first anniversary of Thompson's historic concert at Zagreb’s Hippodrome, which had drawn half a million attendees and set a record for ticket sales for a single performer in Croatia. Fans began arriving as early as midday, some even earlier, creating a vibrant atmosphere around the venue. Throughout the city, stands selling T-shirts and other memorabilia were set up, reflecting the high anticipation among supporters.

The concert was initially scheduled to begin at 8 PM but was moved to 9 PM due to weather conditions. Despite this change, the crowd remained patient and enthusiastic. Many fans arrived dressed in black shirts with slogans, some wearing flags, while others displayed symbols associated with the Croatian Home Guard (HOS). This mix of attire highlighted both the emotional connection to Thompson’s music and the broader cultural significance of the event. As the time approached, the stadium filled rapidly, with thousands of spectators taking their seats or standing along the edges of the field behind the stage.

Organizers implemented special traffic regulations to manage the influx of visitors. Police redirected and controlled traffic, banning personal vehicles from certain streets within the central part of Zaprešić. Attendees arriving by car were required to park at the Westgate shopping center parking lot, where free shuttle buses transported them to the stadium. These measures aimed to ensure safety and smooth logistics for such a large-scale event.

As the clock struck 9 PM, Thompson officially opened the concert with his song “Ustani iz sjene” (“Rise from the Shadow”), setting the tone for what would become a memorable evening. The atmosphere was electric, with fans singing along and waving flags throughout the performance. The event also served as a precursor to upcoming concerts planned for later in the summer, including one in Šibenik on August 4 and another in Imotska on August 8. These additional shows underscored the continued popularity of Thompson and the demand for his live performances.

The concert in Zaprešić was not just a celebration of music but also a reflection of the deep cultural impact Thompson has had over the years. His previous appearances, including those during the tour of Croatian cities such as Osijek, Varaždin, and Zadar, had been met with similar enthusiasm. The rapid sale of tickets often led to additional show dates being added, demonstrating the artist’s enduring appeal. This particular event further solidified Thompson’s status as one of Croatia’s most influential musicians.

Following the concert, attention will likely shift toward the upcoming performances in Šibenik and Imotska. Organizers have already announced these dates, and fans are expected to continue showing strong support. The success of the Zaprešić concert could influence future planning, potentially leading to more events or expanded venues to accommodate growing audiences. Meanwhile, the legacy of Thompson’s previous performances, especially the record-breaking Hippodrome concert, continues to shape public interest and media coverage surrounding his career.