SME/ Zadar, Croatia
The 10th edition of the Dalmatinko Cup, one of Europe’s fastest-growing international youth football tournaments, concluded this weekend with unprecedented success. Over four days, more than 3,500 young footballers from 26 countries competed in 496 matches across nine fields and eight locations in Zadar County—marking the most ambitious and inclusive edition to date.
The jubilee tournament not only showcased sporting excellence but also demonstrated the powerful role youth events can play in promoting tourism, inclusion, and international friendship.
“This year’s turnout, energy, and feedback surpassed all expectations. Our aim for 2026 is to expand further, add more fields, and attract the world’s biggest clubs—Real Madrid, Barcelona, and PSG,”
said Domagoj Bojčić, founder and director of the Dalmatinko Cup.
A Benchmark in Youth Sports Organization
Supported by a dedicated team of 230 staff members, the tournament set a new standard for event execution in Croatia. Each field operated with a 12-member support crew, ensuring that all 496 matches ran on time and at a professional level.
International club Inter Milan was among this year’s headline participants, as organizers prepare to welcome even more elite teams in the years ahead.
Inclusion at the Heart: The Special Power League
A standout moment was the Special Power League, an inclusive competition for children and individuals with intellectual disabilities. Teams such as Dinamo Zagreb, Hajduk Split, Istra 1961, and Mali Princ Zadar competed in a moving display of sportsmanship and unity. The league confirmed Dalmatinko Cup’s commitment to making football a game for everyone.
“Inclusion isn’t a slogan—it’s our reality,” said Bojčić. “We’re proud to see these children shine on the same stage.”
Big Names, Bright Futures
The tournament also featured appearances by well-known figures such as Senijad Ibričić, Bosnian football legend and long-time ambassador of the event.
“This is more than football. It’s a school of life,” said Ibričić. “It teaches kids about teamwork, diversity, and resilience.”
Mateo Erceg, recently named to UEFA’s referees list and one of Croatia’s most promising young referees, officiated the finals—bringing even more prestige to the event.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Beyond the pitch, the tournament generated more than 12,000 overnight stays in Zadar County, contributing significantly to the local economy. With teams arriving from around the globe—many via Zadar Airport—the Dalmatinko Cup reinforced its dual role as a sporting and tourism powerhouse.
A promotional film for the U.S. market is also in development, reflecting the tournament’s growing international ambitions. Notably, 2025 marked the first-ever participation of a team from the United States.
Looking Ahead
With strategic plans underway to extend the event across two weekends and further upgrade infrastructure, the Dalmatinko Cup is positioning itself as a cornerstone event for global youth football.
“We invite partners, sponsors, and institutions to support this vision,” Bojčić concluded. “Croatia has the potential to become a world-class destination for youth sport—if we build the right foundation.”
