World Championship in Balun Kicks Off at Skalina
At the iconic Split playground behind the Jadran pool, a new edition of the traditional small-sided football tournament has begun, this year enriched with a larger prize fund.
At the iconic Split playground behind the Jadran pool, a new edition of the traditional small-sided football tournament has begun, this year enriched with a larger prize fund.
At the Skalina playground behind the Jadran pool in Split, a new edition of the iconic World Championship in Balun at Skalina kicked off today, August 3, 2026. The honor of opening the tournament went to the youngest footballers, who immediately brought a fantastic atmosphere to this unique concrete pitch.
On the first day of competition, participants in the youth categories U11, U13, and U15 faced off. Organizers report a record turnout in the youngest age groups, with 32 teams registered, confirming that Skalina remains one of the favorite spots for small-sided football among Split's children, reports DalmacijaDanas.
In addition to the record number of participants, the organizers have raised the bar further by increasing the prize fund. The main prize for the winners has been doubled compared to last year. For the first time in the tournament's history, the fourth-place senior team will also be rewarded, adding extra suspense to the finals.
In the coming days, seniors and veterans in the +45 category will take to the field. The tournament is traditionally played on the unique pitch known for its stone slope, which is an integral part of the field and the game itself, making the World Championship in Balun special and recognizable among small-sided football enthusiasts. The large number of spectators who gather around the pitch year after year confirms its iconic status as one of the symbols of Split's summer.
