How much money is Croatia allocating for sports competitions in 2027?

A total of €11 million has been secured, of which €4.1 million is available through a public call.

Until when can organizers apply for the public call?

The deadline for applications is September 11, and the call was issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Sport.

Which major competitions are already confirmed for 2027?

Among them are the World Rally Championship, the World Obstacle Course Racing Championships, the Youth Sports Games, and the E1 Series World Championship for electric raceboats.

What does the state expect from investing in sports competitions?

It expects increased tourist spending, an extended season, and measurable benefits for local infrastructure and clubs.

Croatia

11 Million Euros for Sports Spectacles in 2027

B.J. · 04. 08. 2026. | 2 min

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has launched a public call worth 4.1 million euros, with applications open until September 11. The goal is to boost tourist traffic and extend the season.

Summary

€11 million secured for international sports competitions in 2027.
Public call worth €4.1 million open until September 11.
Goal is to boost tourist spending and extend the season, with measurable results required from organizers.
Government has allocated nearly €80 million for 250 competitions during its mandate.

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In 2027, Croatia will allocate 11 million euros for international sports competitions. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has already launched a public call worth 4.1 million euros, aimed at organizers who can increase the country's visibility on the sports map of Europe and the world. The deadline for applications is September 11.

Funding for Proven and New Events

Of the total amount, nearly seven million euros are reserved for already established competitions to be held in 2027. This includes the World Rally Championship and the Obstacle Course Racing World Championships, the Youth Sports Games, and the E1 Series World Championship for electric race boats. Minister of Tourism and Sports Tonči Glavina emphasized that the funds are allocated to better promote Croatia.

Sport as a Driver of the Tourist Season

The state expects economic benefits from these investments, particularly higher tourist spending and extending the season beyond the summer months. During its current mandate, the government has supported around 250 international sports competitions with nearly 80 million euros, showing that major sporting events are increasingly seen as part of tourism promotion, not just sporting events.

What Awaits Us by the End of 2026

By the end of this year, Croatia will host several important events: the World Obstacle Course Racing Championships, the European Gymnastics Championships, the Cro Race cycling race, and the Zagreb Judo Grand Prix. These events should serve as a prelude to more ambitious plans in 2027.

Concrete Results, Not Just Photos, Are Sought

Although the amounts are large, the Ministry emphasizes that every contract must have clear and measurable goals. This includes the number of foreign participants and guests, media visibility, the number of overnight stays, and the benefit to local clubs and sports infrastructure. The emphasis is on the legacy the event leaves behind - equipment, knowledge, renovated facilities, and new audiences.

The way the 11 million euros are distributed will show whether Croatia is building serious sports tourism or merely funding a series of expensive events with no lasting impact.